TRIP TO BARCELONA AND BACK ON THE SAME DAY

TRIP TO BARCELONA AND BACK ON THE SAME DAY : January 14th 1985 and yes it was snowing. We should have gone to Girona–Costa Brava Airport. 

However the guy there could not clear the runway quick enough of snow with his broom. 

I am writing a full story with more photos so stay tuned. 

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Malcolm

Airspotters.com 

Explaining about our preloved models at Airspotters.com

Our Preloved collection offers unique opportunities for model enthusiasts. These cherished items have found their way to us through downsizing or, in some cases, as part of a bereavement process. We understand the emotional significance of these models and strive to find them loving new homes.

While we carefully inspect each model, please note that they are not brand new. Minor imperfections like missing wing aerials or shelf wear may be present. We appreciate your understanding as we work diligently to accurately describe each item. To ensure your model looks its best, a gentle clean with warm soapy water or a simple dust and polish might be necessary. We love to do this for you, however the pressure of the business dictates otherwise. 

We offer competitive pricing to reflect the nature of these items and want you to feel confident in your purchase. Please note that discount codes cannot be applied to Preloved or Clearance items.

Thank you for supporting our efforts to find these special models their next adventure.”*

 Pop to Airspotters.com to see these

Peter and Malcolm 

Pilot's Paradise: Exploring the Legacy of Classic Aircraft

Pilot's Paradise: Exploring the Legacy of Classic Aircraft

Attention, aviation enthusiasts and model aircraft collectors! Aeroclassics has been a trusted name in replicating iconic aircraft for years, and their propeller-driven models are no exception. Today, we're taking a trip down memory lane to revisit some of their very first offerings in the popular 1/400 scale.

These models, currently due for listing on Airspotters.com, represent a significant chapter in Aeroclassics' journey. They're a testament to the brand's dedication to replicating classic propellers in meticulous detail, capturing the essence of a bygone era of aviation. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting your exploration, these early Aeroclassics models are sure to spark your interest.

We've loaded up some pictures of these very early models to give you a closer look. From the graceful curves of the fuselage to the intricate detailing of the propellers, these miniature works of art offer a window into the world of classic prop-driven aircraft.

But wait, there's more!

These models are part of a larger collection we're selling on Airspotters.com. So, if you're looking to expand your collection or simply reminisce about the golden age of propeller airplanes, be sure to head over and take a look. You might just find the perfect piece to add to your aviation haven.

The backdrop is an ABC World Airways Guide of International Routes 1982 

These models have been meticulously preserved in their original boxes.  Their condition is exceptional, considering the passage of time since their creation.

Preserving the Legacy: The Journey of These Pristine Aeroclassics Models

These Aeroclassics propeliners aren't just any models; they're meticulously preserved time capsules ready to take flight in a new collection. After an arduous journey from Portugal – a testament to their previous owner's dedication – these nearly 300 models have arrived safely in our care.

Unlike our usual methods of collection or UPS transport, we personally unpacked each model with the utmost care. Knowing the owner's meticulous attention to detail firsthand, we were confident in their excellent condition. After a thorough inspection to ensure their pristine state, we're thrilled to announce that these exceptional models will begin their journey to new homes!

Mark your calendars! 

Listings for the models showcased here will start appearing on Airspotters.com on the week commencing July 15th, 2024. Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a piece of aviation history, preserved in its original glory by Aeroclassics and meticulously cared for by its previous owner

You can reach me on webmaster@airspotters.com. My name is Malcolm and I am the creator of Airspotters.com. This post will be shared and seen by hundreds of thousand very quickly over the next few days. 

Airspotters.com 

 

WINDSOR CASTLE & HEATHROW AIRCRAFT JULY 2024

 

The air crackled with a different kind of royalty today. Yes, Windsor Castle loomed ahead, a majestic testament to centuries of history, but for me, the real drama was unfolding overhead. Every few minutes, a steel bird would fly across the sky, its belly gleaming in the sun. My wife, ever the diplomat, nudged me with a smile, "Enjoying the airshow, are we?"

My two daughters, bless their curious hearts, caught on first. "Daddy's plane-spotting again!" they chorused, smiling. They knew this dance – the tug-of-war between history buff and aviation enthusiast raging within me. Today, however, they were my willing accomplices.

As we explored the opulent State Apartments, each room dripping with grandeur, my ears perked up at the faint hum of distant engines. With a theatrical whisper, I'd announce, "Looks like a Boeing 777, heading for America!" My wife, feigning exasperation, would roll her eyes. My two daughters fully understood this is just dad at his best.

Later, amidst the many paths and walkways, I whipped out my phone the moment a sleek Air Canada jet roared overhead. "There she goes! An Boeing 787 Dreamliner, beauty on a mission to Canada!" My wife, pretending to be engrossed in a guidebook, couldn't help but steal a glance at the disappearing speck in the sky. The girls, meanwhile, were full-fledged co-pilots, narrating the plane's imaginary ascent, their voices rising with each imaginary altitude gain.

By the end of the day, Windsor Castle had woven its magic, its stories whispering through the ages.

 But etched alongside those memories were the fleeting glimpses of those airborne giants, each one a promise of adventure, of faraway lands, and the boundless human spirit that dared to take flight.

As we walked back to the car, my wife nudged me again, this time with a playful wink. "So, which one was your favourite, love – the Kings castle or the one with wings overhead?"

It was a truly remarkable day at Windsor Castle! A delightful mixture of the past and present unfolded before our very eyes. One can't help but wonder what Henry VIII, who rests eternally within St. George's Chapel alongside his beloved Jane Seymour, would make of the modern marvel streaking across the sky.

Windsor Castle truly serves as a magnificent final resting place for so many of England's monarchs. I imagine even the ever-stoic Queen Elizabeth II might raise an eyebrow and remark with a hint of amusement, "These flypasts seem to be a rather frequent occurrence these days, wouldn't you say?"

As we left the castle grounds, the rumble of another jet vibrated in the distance. I pointed my my camera skyward with practiced ease, a familiar comfort in my hands. For nearly six decades, the click of the shutter has been the soundtrack to my life, capturing fleeting moments and sparking a lifelong love affair with the world.

This day, however, held a special resonance. Blending the rich tapestry of history with the modern marvels soaring overhead, it solidified my dual passions. Perhaps Henry VIII never dreamt of metal birds gracing the skies above his final resting place, and Queen Elizabeth's stoicism might be tested by the constant hum of engines. But for me, it was a beautiful symphony – a timeless melody of the past intertwined with the ever-evolving song of human ingenuity.

And who knows, maybe one of those captured planes, frozen in a digital frame, might just carry a spark of inspiration for a future generation, much like that British Caledonian One Eleven landing at Gatwick all those years ago ignited a fire in my own heart. So, with a final satisfied click, I put my camera away, already planning our next adventure – a delightful blend of history, photography, and of course, the irresistible allure of the skies.

For those who share my fascination with aircraft, or want to ignite that spark in a loved one, head over to Airspotters.com. We offer a selection of superb model aircraft, perfect for capturing the essence of these majestic machines.

And if you'd like to see more of my photographic journeys, beyond the world of aviation, visit emptywalls.uk to explore my wider portfolio. Please follow this blog as well as it matures into more stories and photos.

Cheerio for now, as it should never be goodbye

Malcolm 

 

RAF/EAST AFRICAN AIRWAYS VC10 DUNSFOLD OCTOBER 2017 (RETIRED)

RAF/EAST AFRICAN AIRWAYS VC10 DUNSFOLD OCTOBER 2017 (RETIRED) : Bob Cooper gave me permission to go up to Dunsfold for the day to see this magnificent aircraft close up. It was due to do engine test runs which I almost missed.

I did hear these lovely engines wind up and let roar. If I remember rightly we were down to do a quick taxes but for reason i cannot remember this was called of. I managed to get lots of photos and talk to Bob Cooper and a retired East African Airways pilot. I cannot remember his name but sure Bob will put it in the comments below. The pilot was talking about the flights he had on this aircraft including a engine failure out of Nairobi.

I always remember see this at Heathrow as well. I do miss the VC10 and have also been in the cockpit of a BUA/Caledonian VC10 at Gatwick in the 1960's. At Duxford been on that one too, albeit in a pretty poor state last time I saw it.

This VC10 at Dunsfold was 5H-MOG of East African Airways from 1970 to 1977. It went back to BAC and then onto the RAF. This aircraft is not open to the public as far as I am aware.

I have shared this on facebook "MY LONDON GATWICK" as well as it not to far away.

Malcolm

Airspotters.com

WB Models Virgin Atlantic Airbus A350-1000 G-VBOB Scale 1/200 B-VIR-35X-BOB

The WB Models Virgin Atlantic Airbus A350-1000 G-VBOB is a highly detailed, pre-finished diecast model airplane in 1/200 scale. It is a replica of a Virgin Atlantic Airbus A350-1000 aircraft with the registration G-VBOB.

Airspotters.com 

The model is made of metal and comes with a stand for display. It features rolling gears and other details that are accurate to the real aircraft. This model is a great collector's item for aviation enthusiasts or anyone who loves Virgin Atlantic Airways.

Here are some of the key features of the WB Models Virgin Atlantic Airbus A350-1000 G-VBOB:

• Scale: 1/200
• Material: Diecast metal
• With stand
• Rolling gears
• Highly detailed

It is currently available for pre-order from a number of retailers, with an expected release date of August 2024

Please pop to Airspotters.com and order your today

Wheels on or off 

Airspotters.com 

A lovely model to add your collection 

Tampo printed none faded graphics 

Airspotters.com 

Perfect paint match as well 

Detailed engines 

A superb box 

Airspotters.com 

 

EasyJet's Classic Livery: A Look Back at Gatwick's "Orange Airport"

Many may not remember, but EasyJet's aircraft used to sport a vibrant orange and white livery. These pictures, taken at Gatwick Airport between 2016 and 2018, capture that era. The airline has since transitioned to a new design, but the classic orange scheme holds a special place in my photo collection.

Gatwick Airport even earned the nickname "the orange airport" due to EasyJet's dominance. It's a reminder of how quickly things change in aviation. Here, we see several aircraft in the old livery, some of which have likely been stored, scrapped or repainted by now.

This post serves as a reminder to capture those fleeting moments. While the weather may not be ideal today, putting off photography can lead to missed opportunities.

Looking back on my 50+ years of photography, I started with a simple Kodak Brownie. It wasn't fancy, but it sparked a lifelong passion. Now, in my 60s, I'm revisiting this love and sometimes wonder about I should have taken an alternative paths, like pursuing photography as a career. But hindsight is always 20/20, right?

I hope you enjoyed this glimpse into EasyJet's past at Gatwick. 

 Let me know your thoughts on the comments below, and feel free to follow our new blog for more aviation content.

Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for future posts!

Airspotters.com

For model aircraft

including Easyjet

Cheerio for now, from

Malcolm 

Checkout emptywalls.uk my other photography wesbite