The article highlights the upcoming addition of the Aussie Mustang ‘Snifter’ to the Air Leasing/Ultimate Warbirds fleet. The two-seat Mustang, currently based in Queensland, Australia, will be dismantled for shipping to the UK. There, it will be re-assembled and repainted in a new scheme before joining the pleasure flying fleet. The Mustang’s history dates back to its construction in Melbourne, Australia, in 1948, and its subsequent restoration to airworthiness in 1997. With its rich heritage and unique features, the arrival of ‘Snifter’ is sure to captivate aviation enthusiasts and delight future passengers.
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Aussie Mustang ‘Snifter’ to Join the Air Leasing / Ultimate Warbirds Fleet
Queensland, Australia-based two-seat Mustang VH-MFT is set to make its way to Archerfield airport in the UK. Once it arrives, the aircraft will be dismantled and prepared for re-assembly and repainting as part of the Air Leasing / Ultimate Warbirds pleasure flying fleet. This move marks an exciting opportunity for aviation enthusiasts in the UK to experience the thrill of flying in this iconic aircraft.
Overview of Mustang VH-MFT
Mustang VH-MFT, also known as “Snifter,” is a two-seat Mustang that has a rich history and has undergone extensive restoration to ensure its airworthiness. Originally built in Melbourne, Australia under license by the Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation (CAC) as CA-18 Mk.21, construction number 1435, with the serial A68-110, this aircraft has seen it all. From being stored and sold for scrap to being restored and sold multiple times, VH-MFT has a fascinating story to tell.
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History of Construction and Delivery
VH-MFT was delivered in 1948 after being constructed by the Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation (CAC) in Melbourne, Australia. However, it spent the majority of its time in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) in storage before being deemed surplus and sold for scrap in 1957. Despite its initial fate, VH-MFT would go on to have a remarkable journey in the years to come.
Restoration and Airworthiness
In the following decades, VH-MFT received a new lease on life through a composite restoration project based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. After restoration, the aircraft was shipped to Caboolture, Queensland, Australia, where it arrived in May 1995. It was during this time that VH-MFT received its registration as VH-MFT and was restored to airworthiness. The Mustang completed its first flight after restoration on January 24, 2002, from its home base in Caboolture. With full dual controls for the passenger seat, VH-MFT was ready for its new role as a joy-flying machine.
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Previous Ownership and Recent Sale
Throughout its operational years, VH-MFT has changed hands multiple times. The aircraft was sold in 2020 and has recently been sold again. This change in ownership is what has paved the way for the Mustang to make its journey to the UK and join the Air Leasing / Ultimate Warbirds fleet. The new owners recognize the immense value and appeal of VH-MFT and the joy it will bring to aviation enthusiasts in the UK.
The Mustang’s Paint Scheme
One of the distinguishing features of VH-MFT is its striking paint scheme. Since its restoration, the Mustang has worn the colors of a veteran Dallas, Texas, North American Aviation-built P-51D-25-NT Mustang 44-84502, which was known as a “Mustang Mk.IV” in British Commonwealth use. This particular aircraft served with 82 Squadron RAAF in postwar Japan as part of the British Commonwealth Occupation Force. It was also flown on combat missions over Korea with 77 Squadron RAAF. The paint scheme pays homage to this rich history, making VH-MFT a truly unique and visually appealing aircraft.
RAAF Service of the Original Mustang
The original Mustang that VH-MFT is modeled after played a significant role in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). It served with distinction in various capacities, including its participation in the British Commonwealth Occupation Force in postwar Japan. As part of 82 Squadron RAAF, the Mustang, with the registration A68-769, was the personal mount of Squadron Leader Frank Schaaf, who commanded the squadron during their time in Japan. The aircraft also carried out combat missions over Korea as part of 77 Squadron RAAF.
Role in British Commonwealth Occupation Force
As mentioned earlier, Mustang A68-769, the original aircraft on which VH-MFT’s paint scheme is based, served in the British Commonwealth Occupation Force in postwar Japan. This force played a vital role in maintaining peace and stability in the region after World War II. A68-769 served as the personal mount of Squadron Leader Frank Schaaf during this time, demonstrating the aircraft’s significance and the trust placed in it by the RAAF.
Combat Missions in Korea
After its service in postwar Japan, Mustang A68-769 flew several combat missions over Korea as part of 77 Squadron RAAF. These missions were carried out during the Korean War and showcased the Mustang’s capabilities as a formidable fighter aircraft. The bravery and skill of the pilots, paired with the reliability and performance of the Mustang, contributed to the successful execution of these missions.
Return and Decommissioning in Australia
Following its combat missions in Korea, Mustang A68-769 was returned to Australia in 1949 and assigned to 78 Wing, located in Williamtown, New South Wales. However, in 1951-52, the aircraft underwent conversion to components, marking the end of its operational service in the RAAF. While the aircraft may have been decommissioned, its legacy and historical significance have not been forgotten.
Reasons for the Move to the UK
The decision to transport VH-MFT from Australia to the UK stems from the growing popularity of warbird pleasure flying in the UK. The move allows aviation enthusiasts in the UK to experience the thrill of flying in an iconic Mustang aircraft. By joining the Air Leasing / Ultimate Warbirds fleet, VH-MFT will have the opportunity to continue its legacy while captivating a new audience with its unique history and stunning appearance.
Conclusion
The arrival of Mustang VH-MFT, or “Snifter,” to the UK marks an exciting addition to the Air Leasing / Ultimate Warbirds fleet. With its rich history, extensive restoration, and captivating paint scheme, VH-MFT is sure to capture the hearts and imaginations of aviation enthusiasts in the UK. The move from Australia to the UK not only provides a new opportunity for the Mustang but also highlights the growing interest in warbird pleasure flying. As VH-MFT begins its journey to the UK, aviation enthusiasts eagerly await the chance to soar through the skies in this iconic aircraft.