As FlyPast was closing for press, news broke that a restored de Havilland Mosquito will be based at and flying from Biggin Hill!
Once it has been made airworthy by New Zealand-based specialists AvSpecs, it will be transported to the UK, and is likely to be operating here from 2026.
Peter Monk, Managing Director of flyaspitfire.com and the Spitfire Company (Biggin Hill) said: “Following previous announcements and patiently waiting for availability in a busy restoration programme we’re delighted to confirm that we’ve now commissioned the team at AvSpecs to commence the restoration of a Mosquito FB.VI. Upon completion the aircraft will join our fleet of two-seat Spitfires and other World War Two aircraft that are available for flight experiences here at Biggin Hill.
“The team at AvSpecs are leaders in the field of Mosquito restoration and this will be the fifth airframe that they have restored to an airworthy condition. Whilst there’s always an appetite for us to take on different restoration projects at our own ‘Spitfire Factory’ at Biggin Hill, the unique skill set and proven experience of the team at AvSpecs makes them an obvious choice for this special project.
“The restoration is scheduled to take three years and once completed the aircraft will complete a commemorative tour of New Zealand, Australia and then on to the UK in honour of the Commonwealth pilots that flew Mosquitos in World War Two.
“The Mosquito has a special place in history and we’re still deciding which specific markings the aircraft will carry upon its completion. Recognition of the pilots and French resistance fighters that took part in ‘Operation Jericho’ on 18th February 1944 is a popular choice; however we’re still considering a number of options and will be releasing regular updates on the progress of the project on Facebook.
“We believe this will be the only airworthy example of the Mosquito in Europe and we’re excited at the prospect of offering members of the public the chance to ‘Fly a Mosquito’ from Biggin Hill in 2026.”
