A jet named after a Welsh winner of the Victoria Cross and used by the Royal Family was delivered to a South Wales aviation museum today after making its final flight for the RAF.
The BAe146 four-engined transport, previously operated by the Queen’s Flight, is being given by the RAF to the South Wales Aviation Museum (SWAM) at St Athan.
The aircraft was delivered by Number 32 Squadron, known as ‘The Royal’ squadron – the unit has operated the aircraft for many years to transport members of the Royal family, senior government ministers and Ministry of Defence personnel.
Piloting the aircraft, number ZE700, on its final flight was Wing Commander Delia Chadwick, the current Commanding Officer of 32 Sqn. She said: “Crews old and new are exceptionally fond of the 146’s characteristics and capabilities. They’re proud of her proven reliability, her rich heritage and the significant role she’s delivered. While it is a sad day to say goodbye to the aircraft we hold so dear after years of unrelenting service, she thoroughly deserves her retirement, and it’s time for 32 (The Royal) Squadron to enter a new chapter in its history”.
Former RAF Chief Technician, Barry Kelly, was also on ZE700’s last flight. He has worked on the aircraft both in the RAF and as a civilian contractor for over 30 years since it entered service in the mid-eighties and it was an emotional day for him.
Source: UK MoD RAF
