Flight of the Hurricane

Dedicated warbird enthusiasts headed to Scone Airport, in the Upper Hunter on 12th November, to be part of a once-in-a-lifetime experience, to be amongst the first to see the beautifully restored and historic Hawker Hurricane fly again in one of the most picturesque settings for an air display.

It has been more than 70 years since a Hurricane has flown in Australia since 1944, and it is the only one of its kind in the southern hemisphere.

This was the plane’s first public flight in Australia, being the star attraction of the “Flight of the Hurricane” Air Display presented by Scone-based Pay’s Air Services and

Vintage Fighter Restorations to aid one of the Hunter’s most vital community services, The Westpac Helicopter Service.

The Hawker Hurricane Mk X11/11B, Serial No 5481 C/N 60372, C-FDNL, was joined on the day by other rare warbird aircraft participating in the air display including a Mk8 Spitfire, TBM Avenger, CAC Wirraway, T-28 Trojan, P-51 Mustang, Grumman Avenger, and an L-39 Albatros.

Well-known aviation business owner, restorer and pilot, Ross Pay, managing director of Pay’s Air Services and Vintage Fighter Restorations, along with aircraft engineer Greg Jonhson and the Hurricane’s owner, John Brooks, have helped plan the event, with several major aviation businesses and organisations lending their support.

Three years ago, the discovery of the aircraft was made by Ross Pay, who contacted Scone businessman John Brooks to seek his interest in financing the rebuild project…

Story Marilyn Collins. Photos Mark Jessop, Aviation Spotters Online.