Latest news
News 20160123: Shooting at the workshop
Some scenes were shot this saturday January 23th aboard our B25 at the wokshop. These scene are incuded in a short film witch will be presented at the Brussels International fantastic Film festival 2016.
This short film is directed by Olivier Mercks (Member of BAPA).
This short film is directed by Olivier Mercks (Member of BAPA).
News 20160305: NEW WEBSITE
BAPA is proud to present his new website with a new URL
http://www.bapa.aero. The purpose of this new website is present the activities en events of the association.
www.bapa.aero present the workshop activities, thes collections, the flying squadron and BAPA's master piece: the B25 Mitchell.
http://www.bapa.aero. The purpose of this new website is present the activities en events of the association.
www.bapa.aero present the workshop activities, thes collections, the flying squadron and BAPA's master piece: the B25 Mitchell.
News 20160401: Donation of a glider "Jeunesse" by M. Pletinckx
The Max Williams 29 «Jeunesse» (modified) was given by Mr. Pletinckx in april 2016.
This new piece of our collection is in a quite good condition. This glider need to be cleaned and the fabric covering need to be replaced.
BAPA warmly thanks Mr. Pletings for this donation and his confidence
This new piece of our collection is in a quite good condition. This glider need to be cleaned and the fabric covering need to be replaced.
BAPA warmly thanks Mr. Pletings for this donation and his confidence
News 20160610: Donation of an engine Continental O-470 M
The engine Continental O-470 M (6-cylinder engine - 240 hp) is coming in the BAPA collection. In Belgium, this type of engine powered the Cessna 310B used by the Belgian Aviation School (Ecole d'aviation civile/ Burgerluchtvaart-school)
This engine was delivered in perfect condition. This piece will be exposed after setting on a frame.
BAPA warmly thanks Mr. Roger Poncelet for his donation and his confidence.
This engine was delivered in perfect condition. This piece will be exposed after setting on a frame.
BAPA warmly thanks Mr. Roger Poncelet for his donation and his confidence.
News 20160919: open doors BAPA 2016 close on success
Despite a morning uncertain weather, the BAPA open doors were held successfully and closed in sunny weather.
Many visitors came to watch our workshop and the progress of our projects and expressed their satisfaction.
The exhibitors are satisfied with their day and have already indicated that they planned to come back next year.
Many visitors came to watch our workshop and the progress of our projects and expressed their satisfaction.
The exhibitors are satisfied with their day and have already indicated that they planned to come back next year.
News 20161211: New Albatros in the collection
This Saturday december 3 saw the arrival of our new acquisition : an ultralight Aviasud Albatros AE209 .
It was given by Michel Baudrux who based it at the nearby Liernu ulmodrome. Except the propeller and two instruments, it is complete and in state of airworthiness.
The Albatros was designed by the belgians engineers Bernard d’Otreppe and François Goethals who founded Aviasud at Frejus in France to produce their others famous ultralights : the Sirocco and the Mistral.
Although french registered, the Albatros find its place thanks its belgian linkage in our collection.
Many thanks to Michel Baudrux for this beautiful gift.
It was given by Michel Baudrux who based it at the nearby Liernu ulmodrome. Except the propeller and two instruments, it is complete and in state of airworthiness.
The Albatros was designed by the belgians engineers Bernard d’Otreppe and François Goethals who founded Aviasud at Frejus in France to produce their others famous ultralights : the Sirocco and the Mistral.
Although french registered, the Albatros find its place thanks its belgian linkage in our collection.
Many thanks to Michel Baudrux for this beautiful gift.
News 20170201: A New Browning .50 in for the B-25
BAPA warmly thanks Mr. Vincent Pécriaux for the donation of a Browning .50 "aeronautical version" machine gun in quite good condition. The internal mechanism and the barrel are missing.
This machine gun has already found its place. It will be installed in the nose of the B-25.
BAPA currently has two nearly identical Browning .50 "aviation" machine-guns. With these two uncomplete models, we intend to realize the drawings of a complete machine-gun and to be able to reconstruct replicas as close as possible to the originals.
This machine gun has already found its place. It will be installed in the nose of the B-25.
BAPA currently has two nearly identical Browning .50 "aviation" machine-guns. With these two uncomplete models, we intend to realize the drawings of a complete machine-gun and to be able to reconstruct replicas as close as possible to the originals.
News 20170504: Romibutter OO-504
Another ultralight has rejoigned our collection thanks one of our member.
The Romibutter is a Butterfly with a new fuselage fitted with an engine in frontal position. This unique ULM was conceived and built by Michel Rocourt, hence the name RO+MI+Butter.
It ended its flying career some years ago and was preserved by Alain Blondiau until now. It is complete and exhibited at the workshop. It is one of the oldest Belgian registered ultralights to be preserved.
More info soon on our website.
The Romibutter is a Butterfly with a new fuselage fitted with an engine in frontal position. This unique ULM was conceived and built by Michel Rocourt, hence the name RO+MI+Butter.
It ended its flying career some years ago and was preserved by Alain Blondiau until now. It is complete and exhibited at the workshop. It is one of the oldest Belgian registered ultralights to be preserved.
More info soon on our website.
News 20170826: BAPA in Lantin
With the spring come new visitors, among of them, the Witmeur family, the mastermind of the Belgian Military Vehicle Trust (BMVT), which is an association of Allied Vehicle Owners of the WWII.
On the first weekend of August, they organize a large gathering at Fort Lantin and they invite us to participate with the B-25, that's all.
We were excited because it was the opportunity to get a move on to the beast and give a maximum focus on our emblem and reach a wide audience.
The task is huge because of a new dolly has to be made to carry it and all the structural parts used to put up the B-25 on the dolly have to be repaired.
Furthermore, the BMVT overloads his demand and asks us to paint the B-25 and put the glasses in it ... At this moment, everything depends on parts that are manufactured externally and do not arrive.
One month before the event, nothing could be done and we were about to give up when Wallis Witmeur makes us to know that the B-25 is her headlining. What is more, it is the 30th anniversary of the association and the 10th anniversary of the WAAF which requires a plane to show all their talents to create an atmospheres of time.
Miraculously, the main parts that all depend on arrive at the beginning of July (thanks, SONACA!). And the process goes on. Unfortunately, after any repair, there is always more damage to be repaired, which reduces the working time for the paint.
In the end of July, the team at work on de B-25 keep growing, almost all other projects are put on hold to devote the maximum resources to the necessary work at the B-25 and his dolly. The workshop is open every day in an atmosphere punctuated by the sounds of the riveter and grinder, flashes of welding and various swearings.
Another miracle happens, our friend Thibaut, who has just learned to weld, reveals himself particularly gifted.
The teams of volunteers are on their knees but, with 3 days of transport, the nose is raised gently on its cradle thanks to Roland and its airbags.
The B-25 is ready! The BAPA Reserve teams are taking action to prepare and supervise logistics. Detail, it is necessary to move out half of the workshop to pass the B-25 towards the loading dock.
The transport is tricky: Our package is 6m long and 3,05m high. Wallis Witmeur struggles and finally finds the carrier able to taking over our big package.
On the first weekend of August, they organize a large gathering at Fort Lantin and they invite us to participate with the B-25, that's all.
We were excited because it was the opportunity to get a move on to the beast and give a maximum focus on our emblem and reach a wide audience.
The task is huge because of a new dolly has to be made to carry it and all the structural parts used to put up the B-25 on the dolly have to be repaired.
Furthermore, the BMVT overloads his demand and asks us to paint the B-25 and put the glasses in it ... At this moment, everything depends on parts that are manufactured externally and do not arrive.
One month before the event, nothing could be done and we were about to give up when Wallis Witmeur makes us to know that the B-25 is her headlining. What is more, it is the 30th anniversary of the association and the 10th anniversary of the WAAF which requires a plane to show all their talents to create an atmospheres of time.
Miraculously, the main parts that all depend on arrive at the beginning of July (thanks, SONACA!). And the process goes on. Unfortunately, after any repair, there is always more damage to be repaired, which reduces the working time for the paint.
In the end of July, the team at work on de B-25 keep growing, almost all other projects are put on hold to devote the maximum resources to the necessary work at the B-25 and his dolly. The workshop is open every day in an atmosphere punctuated by the sounds of the riveter and grinder, flashes of welding and various swearings.
Another miracle happens, our friend Thibaut, who has just learned to weld, reveals himself particularly gifted.
The teams of volunteers are on their knees but, with 3 days of transport, the nose is raised gently on its cradle thanks to Roland and its airbags.
The B-25 is ready! The BAPA Reserve teams are taking action to prepare and supervise logistics. Detail, it is necessary to move out half of the workshop to pass the B-25 towards the loading dock.
The transport is tricky: Our package is 6m long and 3,05m high. Wallis Witmeur struggles and finally finds the carrier able to taking over our big package.
But now, the latest surprise, the dolly of the B-25 is designed to run on platforms and not to be lifted with a crane. The only way to lift the B-25 without damage on the structure is to place the anchor points on the base of the dolly, which is 1.5 m below the center of gravity of the load. The download at Fort Lantin was epic. A few beers were usefull to calm the nerves of the "logistics" team.
But the reward is not long to come. As soon as set up, the B-25 reveals itself and stirs up the curiosity of our guests. During this weekend we had only to rest and take advantage of the more than enthusiastic reception of the organizers and participants of this event. Our B-25 is once again the star and we come back with a lot of beautiful pictures and memories. We will not do that every year ...
But the reward is not long to come. As soon as set up, the B-25 reveals itself and stirs up the curiosity of our guests. During this weekend we had only to rest and take advantage of the more than enthusiastic reception of the organizers and participants of this event. Our B-25 is once again the star and we come back with a lot of beautiful pictures and memories. We will not do that every year ...
News 20170926: Open doors 2017
On Saturday September 16th, despite of unattractive meteorological forecasts, this year's open doors is closing off with great success.
The atmosphere was very pleasant and familiar. The visitors were able to observe the new acquisitions as well as the progress of the BAPA projects and, in particular, the spectacular evolution of our B-25 .
Bruno Scordo presented the aerodynamic wind tunnel Boréa and communicated his passion and his enthusiasm to all visitors.
BAPA had the pleasure to welcome members of the Belgian Military Vehicle Trust who came for a courtesy visit with the "Woman Army Corp" and some WWII vehicles.
The sky was particularly clement above the BAPA to offer a breathtaking aerial show with the exceptional passage of the national acrobatic team of "The Red Devils".
Like every year, several stands were reserved for aviation enthusiasts who could buy books and collectables. Particularity of this day, the visitors were able to rub shoulders with cartoonists for a signing session.
BAPA warmly thanks all the volunteers who helped us to make those Open Doors a great success.
The atmosphere was very pleasant and familiar. The visitors were able to observe the new acquisitions as well as the progress of the BAPA projects and, in particular, the spectacular evolution of our B-25 .
Bruno Scordo presented the aerodynamic wind tunnel Boréa and communicated his passion and his enthusiasm to all visitors.
BAPA had the pleasure to welcome members of the Belgian Military Vehicle Trust who came for a courtesy visit with the "Woman Army Corp" and some WWII vehicles.
The sky was particularly clement above the BAPA to offer a breathtaking aerial show with the exceptional passage of the national acrobatic team of "The Red Devils".
Like every year, several stands were reserved for aviation enthusiasts who could buy books and collectables. Particularity of this day, the visitors were able to rub shoulders with cartoonists for a signing session.
BAPA warmly thanks all the volunteers who helped us to make those Open Doors a great success.
News 20171012: A new acquisition at workshop
Monday, october 9th, a Pratt & Whitney R1830-92 radial engine has rejoined our collection.
Mainly fitted on the Douglas C-47 Dakota and the Consolidated Catalina aircrafts, it was a spare engine not used for the Melsbroek Dakota Museum’s own Dakota and given to our association.
One cylinder is missing as all the rear accessories casing and we already invite everyone who can help with these parts or join us to restore this engine.
We are grateful to Jean Dries, the 15th Wing for the loading, Kipar for the van and Michel Huart for the information.
Mainly fitted on the Douglas C-47 Dakota and the Consolidated Catalina aircrafts, it was a spare engine not used for the Melsbroek Dakota Museum’s own Dakota and given to our association.
One cylinder is missing as all the rear accessories casing and we already invite everyone who can help with these parts or join us to restore this engine.
We are grateful to Jean Dries, the 15th Wing for the loading, Kipar for the van and Michel Huart for the information.
News 20171123: An old glider back to the light
This cold morning of Saturday november 18 saw a recovery team at Moircy to remove an old glider from its hidden place.
The open doors of an old barn revealed a Schleicher Rhönlerche II registered OO-ZUP.
Cancelled from the Belgian register on 13/1/1978, it was aquired by one of its pilot Marcel Janssens in the early eighties. Never used again and stored since that time, it was given to our association by the family Janssens thanks to informations of Firmin Henrard.
The Rhönlerche is a classic tandem training sailplane and it was widely used in Belgium by the Cadets de l’Air and most of the aero-clubs.
The open doors of an old barn revealed a Schleicher Rhönlerche II registered OO-ZUP.
Cancelled from the Belgian register on 13/1/1978, it was aquired by one of its pilot Marcel Janssens in the early eighties. Never used again and stored since that time, it was given to our association by the family Janssens thanks to informations of Firmin Henrard.
The Rhönlerche is a classic tandem training sailplane and it was widely used in Belgium by the Cadets de l’Air and most of the aero-clubs.
News 20180227: The BAPA welcomes the Red Devils
This Friday, February 16, 2018 the BAPA welcomed the Red Devils to thank them for flying over the workshop during the open doors.
Lt. Col. Avi Jean Van Hecke, Cdt. Avi Yves "Meel" Meelbergs and Cdt. Avi Christophe "Tcholle" Deroubaix did us the honor of visiting our workshop and current projects.
They were accompagnied by Laurent Bladt, grandson of Robert "Bobby" Bladt, first leader of the "Red Devils" in 1959, the patrol then flew on Hawker Hunter.
After a short welcome speech and a gift, the BAPA had the privilege of introducing its activities to the pilots of our famous acrobatic patrol.
All the guest had the chance to get to know each other and to exchange a few words over the expanded lunch.
Lt. Col. Avi Jean Van Hecke, Cdt. Avi Yves "Meel" Meelbergs and Cdt. Avi Christophe "Tcholle" Deroubaix did us the honor of visiting our workshop and current projects.
They were accompagnied by Laurent Bladt, grandson of Robert "Bobby" Bladt, first leader of the "Red Devils" in 1959, the patrol then flew on Hawker Hunter.
After a short welcome speech and a gift, the BAPA had the privilege of introducing its activities to the pilots of our famous acrobatic patrol.
All the guest had the chance to get to know each other and to exchange a few words over the expanded lunch.
News 20180501: Thanks to volunteers, Mission B-25 accomplished !
Mission accomplished, the B-25 was ready on time for its transport to a specialized workshop for much needed repair work. The BAPA warmly thanks the volunteers who worked to achieve this goal.
In particular, the BAPA would like to thanks:
- Loïc Devos who helped us a lot in the very ungrateful task of cleaning and sanding the
cockpit. This area seems to be specially designed to hurt the legs, arms and cause
cramps to the poor fellow that has to work in there.
- Loïc Rebts, who helped riveting of several pieces of structure. His presence allowed the
paint work of the rear fuselage to start 4 days ahead of schedule.
- the "Acros du Servo" gang who, in one afternoon, have done a lot of work sanding the entire
outer part of the rear fuselage. This allowed us to complete many other much needed tasks.
We are very grateful for the help provided by those aviation enthusiasts.
In particular, the BAPA would like to thanks:
- Loïc Devos who helped us a lot in the very ungrateful task of cleaning and sanding the
cockpit. This area seems to be specially designed to hurt the legs, arms and cause
cramps to the poor fellow that has to work in there.
- Loïc Rebts, who helped riveting of several pieces of structure. His presence allowed the
paint work of the rear fuselage to start 4 days ahead of schedule.
- the "Acros du Servo" gang who, in one afternoon, have done a lot of work sanding the entire
outer part of the rear fuselage. This allowed us to complete many other much needed tasks.
We are very grateful for the help provided by those aviation enthusiasts.
News 20180820: Aerojumble in Temploux and exhibition of the Slingsby T-38 at the open doors of "Les Accros du Servo"
On Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 of Augustus, BAPA will be pleased to welcome you at the aerojumble in Namur Airfield (Temploux) to participate to the annual BAPA open doors.
Given the success of open doors in 2017, we need help to welcome the many visitors expected.
In the same time, BAPA presents the Slingsby T-38 Grasshopper at the open doors of "Les Accros du Servo" in Bossière (Gembloux).
Both locations are clearly indicated on the presented posters (click on the posters for more info).
Any help is welcome.
Given the success of open doors in 2017, we need help to welcome the many visitors expected.
In the same time, BAPA presents the Slingsby T-38 Grasshopper at the open doors of "Les Accros du Servo" in Bossière (Gembloux).
Both locations are clearly indicated on the presented posters (click on the posters for more info).
Any help is welcome.
News 20181003: our B-25 is back
In April 2018, after a few weeks of hectic work to prepare it, the front and rear fuselage of our B-25 left BAPA's workshop to be used in a movie. It came back from his mission on Monday, September 24, 2018.
Upon departure, the fuselage was mostly empty and had to be completed with parts provided by BAPA (armor, radio, instrument panel, ...) and by the film company (perspex, escape hatch, ...). The deal was that any equipment added to the B-25 by the film company for the purpose of the film was becoming property of the BAPA. The deal was perfectly respected.
The end result is fantastic!!
Our B-25 has now all its perspex and all the escape hatch, the two entrance hatch, brand new windscreen & sliding windows, side gunner windows, turret perspex dome, pilot and co-pilot seats, control column and original ammunition boxes. The instrument panel, that we provided with most of its instruments, has been installed. Many other originals equipments, not even used during the film, have been provided as well.
However, it must be agreed that some items have been installed for movie purpose only & are not historically/technically correct. Those items will be gradually dismantled and replaced by original parts.
BAPA can therefore resume the restoration this autumn.
Upon departure, the fuselage was mostly empty and had to be completed with parts provided by BAPA (armor, radio, instrument panel, ...) and by the film company (perspex, escape hatch, ...). The deal was that any equipment added to the B-25 by the film company for the purpose of the film was becoming property of the BAPA. The deal was perfectly respected.
The end result is fantastic!!
Our B-25 has now all its perspex and all the escape hatch, the two entrance hatch, brand new windscreen & sliding windows, side gunner windows, turret perspex dome, pilot and co-pilot seats, control column and original ammunition boxes. The instrument panel, that we provided with most of its instruments, has been installed. Many other originals equipments, not even used during the film, have been provided as well.
However, it must be agreed that some items have been installed for movie purpose only & are not historically/technically correct. Those items will be gradually dismantled and replaced by original parts.
BAPA can therefore resume the restoration this autumn.
News 20190228: Chickinox Kot Kot
After a very busy 2018, activities of 2019 are starting well at BAPA. The arrivals did not stop. The search for old aircrafts of Belgian design continues.
This month of February was marked with the arrival of a Chickinox Kot Kot in excellent condition. This ultralight is in the process of being cleaned and needs to be restored to the windshield and seats. The dashboard and engine are complete and in good condition.
The "Chickinox Kot Kot" (Chicken - Inox - side by side) was invented by Jacky Tonet in 1982 and produced by the Belgian firm Dynali from 1984.
Available in two-axis and three-axis versions, this Belgian tube and canvas would be produced for over 10 years and would be sold in more than 1,000 copies worldwide.
Call to sponsoring
The space is seriously lacking in the workshop. We ask for help from our members and supporters to find a safe and secure storage site. Developing an exhibition site would be a big step forward.
If you know of a former warehouse in good condition that could be made available to the BAPA, contact us via contact@bapa.aero.
Event
Do not miss he Expo Renard in Evere.
Evere remembers his airport and The Renard Aircrafts through an exhibition to be held from Tuesday, March 12, 2019 at 19h - City Hall of Evere - Espace Delahaut .
This month of February was marked with the arrival of a Chickinox Kot Kot in excellent condition. This ultralight is in the process of being cleaned and needs to be restored to the windshield and seats. The dashboard and engine are complete and in good condition.
The "Chickinox Kot Kot" (Chicken - Inox - side by side) was invented by Jacky Tonet in 1982 and produced by the Belgian firm Dynali from 1984.
Available in two-axis and three-axis versions, this Belgian tube and canvas would be produced for over 10 years and would be sold in more than 1,000 copies worldwide.
Call to sponsoring
The space is seriously lacking in the workshop. We ask for help from our members and supporters to find a safe and secure storage site. Developing an exhibition site would be a big step forward.
If you know of a former warehouse in good condition that could be made available to the BAPA, contact us via contact@bapa.aero.
Event
Do not miss he Expo Renard in Evere.
Evere remembers his airport and The Renard Aircrafts through an exhibition to be held from Tuesday, March 12, 2019 at 19h - City Hall of Evere - Espace Delahaut .
News 20190415: Max Williams Jeunesse restored
Last Saturday (April 6, 2019), the modified ‘Max Williams 29 "Jeunesse" was finally assembled for the first time. This ends more than two years of restoration. Thanks to Jean-Luc, Stefan and Thierry for this very nice patient work.
This aircraft was built by Daniel Pletinckx. He modified the "Jeunesse" with a sitting position for the pilot. Here are some views of the evolution of its restoration. For more information visit this page: http://bapa.aero/Jeunesse.htm
If you want to see this aircraft, it will be presented at the event "Les Accros du Servo" on Saturday 20 April 2019.
http://www.lesaccrosduservo.be/
The aeronautical section of the important library of Mr Christian Kraft de la Saulx has been given to our association.
We deeply thanks his family to have thought that his collection will find a good place within the BAPA."
This aircraft was built by Daniel Pletinckx. He modified the "Jeunesse" with a sitting position for the pilot. Here are some views of the evolution of its restoration. For more information visit this page: http://bapa.aero/Jeunesse.htm
If you want to see this aircraft, it will be presented at the event "Les Accros du Servo" on Saturday 20 April 2019.
http://www.lesaccrosduservo.be/
The aeronautical section of the important library of Mr Christian Kraft de la Saulx has been given to our association.
We deeply thanks his family to have thought that his collection will find a good place within the BAPA."
News 20190513: new acquisitions : DPM Fulmar & Walter Mikron II
he Belgian Aviation Preservation Association has received this Saturday may 4th 2019 its first delta-plane motorized ( DPM) thanks a gift of Roland Dehon.
This DPM is a two-seater Fulmar Tyger II made by Ultra Light Diffusion at Brussels and registered OO-619. Roland worked some times for Fulmar by redrawing all the plans for production and learned us that his Tyger II is the only one of its kind due because the company went bankrupt at the end of 1984. OO-619 was kept at his home of Orbais nearby our workplace.
Our association deeply thanks him for his gift.
As the postman always rings twice, also the phone.
“Are you interested by a 4 cylingers inline engine?” said the message.
“Do not move, I am coming!” And so, a complete Walter Mikron II destined for the scrap was given to the B.A.P.A. thanks the cleverness of Pierre Doubels from Fleron.
In Belgium, the Mikron engine powered all the Tipsy two-seaters aircrafts, so we are very happy with this gift!
This DPM is a two-seater Fulmar Tyger II made by Ultra Light Diffusion at Brussels and registered OO-619. Roland worked some times for Fulmar by redrawing all the plans for production and learned us that his Tyger II is the only one of its kind due because the company went bankrupt at the end of 1984. OO-619 was kept at his home of Orbais nearby our workplace.
Our association deeply thanks him for his gift.
As the postman always rings twice, also the phone.
“Are you interested by a 4 cylingers inline engine?” said the message.
“Do not move, I am coming!” And so, a complete Walter Mikron II destined for the scrap was given to the B.A.P.A. thanks the cleverness of Pierre Doubels from Fleron.
In Belgium, the Mikron engine powered all the Tipsy two-seaters aircrafts, so we are very happy with this gift!
News 20190721: The Tipsy Trainer turns 80
Our venerable Tipsy Trainer was built on 15 th July 1939, was first registered as "G-AFVN " on 20th July 1939 and made her maiden flight on 21st.
This aircraft was camouflaged during WWII. It flew during the war, notably by Prince Bernhard of the Netherlands. BAPA is still investigating this very exciting period.
During his long life, it want from hands to hands:
- 20/07/1939 registered at Airtraining (Oxford Flying Club) Ltd.
in Kidlington
- 18/10/1945 recorded at John Thomas Jones from Oxford
- 17/03/1948 recorded at Ian H.Cameron from Perth
- 28/09/1950 recorded to Edward George S.Formby,
Claude David Millington, Henry William Boden,
Guy Spencer Baker and Eric Darwent Ward,
trustees of the assets of the Montgomeryshire
Ultra Light Flying Club at Welshpool
- 01/05/1965 registered to John Thomas Hayes from Lincoln
- 06/19/1967 registered to Walter Callow, David Henry Harris,
Ernest Arthur Lingard
- 07/01/1992 registered to David Frederick Lingard from Boston
It has been motorized 5 times:
- 1942 Walter Mikron nr 25242
- 1946 Walter Mikron nr 25243
- 1952 Walter Mikron nr 25239
- 1957 Walter Mikron nr 25242 (refurbished)
- 1990 Walter Mikron nr 25297
The Tipsy Trainer was unregistered on 20th November 2006.
It was finally bought on 2nd June 2014 in Belgium by 5 of our members.
It is currently undergoing a deep restoration piece by piece to be put back in condition of flight. It will be modified to receive a Walter Mikron II.
This aircraft was camouflaged during WWII. It flew during the war, notably by Prince Bernhard of the Netherlands. BAPA is still investigating this very exciting period.
During his long life, it want from hands to hands:
- 20/07/1939 registered at Airtraining (Oxford Flying Club) Ltd.
in Kidlington
- 18/10/1945 recorded at John Thomas Jones from Oxford
- 17/03/1948 recorded at Ian H.Cameron from Perth
- 28/09/1950 recorded to Edward George S.Formby,
Claude David Millington, Henry William Boden,
Guy Spencer Baker and Eric Darwent Ward,
trustees of the assets of the Montgomeryshire
Ultra Light Flying Club at Welshpool
- 01/05/1965 registered to John Thomas Hayes from Lincoln
- 06/19/1967 registered to Walter Callow, David Henry Harris,
Ernest Arthur Lingard
- 07/01/1992 registered to David Frederick Lingard from Boston
It has been motorized 5 times:
- 1942 Walter Mikron nr 25242
- 1946 Walter Mikron nr 25243
- 1952 Walter Mikron nr 25239
- 1957 Walter Mikron nr 25242 (refurbished)
- 1990 Walter Mikron nr 25297
The Tipsy Trainer was unregistered on 20th November 2006.
It was finally bought on 2nd June 2014 in Belgium by 5 of our members.
It is currently undergoing a deep restoration piece by piece to be put back in condition of flight. It will be modified to receive a Walter Mikron II.
News 20190920: Prototype SV-4RS
The BAPA usually takes care of old planes. This time, we received an aircraft of the future.
BAPA had the great pleasure to add in his collection the latest version of the most-built Belgian aircraft: an SV-4RS manufactured by Ultralight Concept.
The SV-4RS is the ULM version of the Stampe SV-4 designed and produced by Raoul Severin, giving a new life to this legendary aircraft.
The received structure is one of the prototype cells that survived the stress tests requested to be registered in different countries.
Our purpose is to complete this structure in order to reassemble it and show the manufacturing techniques of this particular version.
We thank Raoul Severin to have thought of us to ensure the preservation of this future piece of aeronautical history.
BAPA had the great pleasure to add in his collection the latest version of the most-built Belgian aircraft: an SV-4RS manufactured by Ultralight Concept.
The SV-4RS is the ULM version of the Stampe SV-4 designed and produced by Raoul Severin, giving a new life to this legendary aircraft.
The received structure is one of the prototype cells that survived the stress tests requested to be registered in different countries.
Our purpose is to complete this structure in order to reassemble it and show the manufacturing techniques of this particular version.
We thank Raoul Severin to have thought of us to ensure the preservation of this future piece of aeronautical history.
News 20191129: Upper turret Bendix for the Mitchell
Great news, we found an extremely rare piece for our B-25: an authentic Bendix A-9 upper turret.
As you know we have the plexiglass dome since the filming of the Catch 22 serie. But to date, in spite of diligent research for several years, it is the only turret that we found which is in a acceptable conservation state.
As nothing is perfect, this turret is in Australia and it is a bit like everything about our B-25, incomplete but restorable. This turret is particularly interesting because it has one of two ammunition boxes in good condition, which is almost impossible to find.
We are raising funds to buy this turret, bring it back to Belgium and start collecting the missing components and putting it back in good condition.
If you want to participate to this project, help us collect the 5.400 US$ needed : make a donation via the Fondation Roi Baudouin, bank account
BE10 0000 0000 0404 with the structural communication
***128/2714/00065***.
Any donation of more than 40 euro will be subject to a tax deduction
To participate in this crazy project click here
As you know we have the plexiglass dome since the filming of the Catch 22 serie. But to date, in spite of diligent research for several years, it is the only turret that we found which is in a acceptable conservation state.
As nothing is perfect, this turret is in Australia and it is a bit like everything about our B-25, incomplete but restorable. This turret is particularly interesting because it has one of two ammunition boxes in good condition, which is almost impossible to find.
We are raising funds to buy this turret, bring it back to Belgium and start collecting the missing components and putting it back in good condition.
If you want to participate to this project, help us collect the 5.400 US$ needed : make a donation via the Fondation Roi Baudouin, bank account
BE10 0000 0000 0404 with the structural communication
***128/2714/00065***.
Any donation of more than 40 euro will be subject to a tax deduction
To participate in this crazy project click here
News 20200201: A Tipsy Nipper comes back in Belgium
A new acquisition of a BAPA member. A Tipsy Nipper in flying condition is coming back in Belgium. After some servicing, he will join the BAPA flying squadron.
The Nipper is the last production of the Tipsy light aircrafts studied by Ernest-Oscar Tips, manager of the Belgian Fairey plant at Gosselies.
The production was launched in two versions : complete in flying conditions or as a complete kit to assemble by an amateur building pilot. Appropriately registered OO-NIP, it first flew on 3/12/1957 in the hands of Bernard Neefs, Avions Fairey test pilot. Today, many Nipper are still flying and it continue to be chosen by homebuilder.
This Nipper #7 built as a Mk1 by Avions Fairey and registered OO-NIG on 17 april 1959. This registration is cancelled on 23/8/1962 as sold in France and registered F-PKVC in the homebuilt branch. Badly damaged on 17/3/1969, it is restored to flying conditions in 1982 with a VW 1600cc engine. Last change of registration on 19/11/2007 when it was registered 89-VC in the ultralight branch. It is the third oldest surviving Nipper and the oldest in Belgium.
The Nipper is the last production of the Tipsy light aircrafts studied by Ernest-Oscar Tips, manager of the Belgian Fairey plant at Gosselies.
The production was launched in two versions : complete in flying conditions or as a complete kit to assemble by an amateur building pilot. Appropriately registered OO-NIP, it first flew on 3/12/1957 in the hands of Bernard Neefs, Avions Fairey test pilot. Today, many Nipper are still flying and it continue to be chosen by homebuilder.
This Nipper #7 built as a Mk1 by Avions Fairey and registered OO-NIG on 17 april 1959. This registration is cancelled on 23/8/1962 as sold in France and registered F-PKVC in the homebuilt branch. Badly damaged on 17/3/1969, it is restored to flying conditions in 1982 with a VW 1600cc engine. Last change of registration on 19/11/2007 when it was registered 89-VC in the ultralight branch. It is the third oldest surviving Nipper and the oldest in Belgium.
News 20200322: The first jet engines at BAPA
The "Haute Ecole Condorcet" has left its facilities at the "Université du travail, Charleroi". On this occasion, they made a donation of a few obsolete educational pieces.
On Wednesday 02/26/2020 BAPA took delivery of 2 Turboméca Marboré II jet engines (Fouga CM.170 Magister). One of the two is a cutaway for educational purposes. The second is complete and installed on its original maintenance support. We hope that these jet engines are the beginning of a long series.
In addition, we have received two Continental 6-cylinder piston engines. The first engine is complete, while the second was used for engine disassembly and reassembly exercises. It needs to be completely reassembled or it will be exposed dismantled to show the inside of a piston engine. For the moment, no final decision has been made.
BAPA thanks Cédric Daumerie (HEPH-Condorcet) and Thierry Langlois for these splendid acquisitions.
Covid-19 Crisis
In order to limit the risk of contamination, the Worshop is closed and visits to BAPA by the public are cancelled until further notice. We apologise for the inconvenience.
BAPA will open his doors to the public again as soon as possible.
On Wednesday 02/26/2020 BAPA took delivery of 2 Turboméca Marboré II jet engines (Fouga CM.170 Magister). One of the two is a cutaway for educational purposes. The second is complete and installed on its original maintenance support. We hope that these jet engines are the beginning of a long series.
In addition, we have received two Continental 6-cylinder piston engines. The first engine is complete, while the second was used for engine disassembly and reassembly exercises. It needs to be completely reassembled or it will be exposed dismantled to show the inside of a piston engine. For the moment, no final decision has been made.
BAPA thanks Cédric Daumerie (HEPH-Condorcet) and Thierry Langlois for these splendid acquisitions.
Covid-19 Crisis
In order to limit the risk of contamination, the Worshop is closed and visits to BAPA by the public are cancelled until further notice. We apologise for the inconvenience.
BAPA will open his doors to the public again as soon as possible.
News 20200322: The first jet engines at BAPA
For several years we have been looking for parts to restore the B-25J to stock configuration. One of the most difficult parts to find has been the very rare Bendix upper turret.
In recent months we were able to find and purchase a core Bendix N-type turret in Australia, which has just been delivered at the workshop. It is an extremely rare (and expensive) collector's item, as it is a genuine turret that was aboard a B-25J during the Second World War.
It needs extensive restoration after several decades spent outside. The aluminium components are still in fairly good condition, but the iron components are heavily corroded and many will have to be replaced. Many accessories are missing and will have to be found. One of them has already been located and purchased.
In the packaging there is also an extremely rare ammunition container; the second one has yet to be sourced. We also have a few duplicates that could be used for exchange and as spare parts. There is a lot of work to return this turret in good condition but, with this rare item now acquired, we are on the right track for a complete restoration of the B-25J.
We sincerely thank all the generous donors who made this extremely important acquisition possible.
Covid-19 Crisis
In order to limit the risk of contamination, the Worshop is closed and visits to BAPA by the public are cancelled until further notice. We apologise for the inconvenience. BAPA will open its doors to the public again as soon as possible.
In recent months we were able to find and purchase a core Bendix N-type turret in Australia, which has just been delivered at the workshop. It is an extremely rare (and expensive) collector's item, as it is a genuine turret that was aboard a B-25J during the Second World War.
It needs extensive restoration after several decades spent outside. The aluminium components are still in fairly good condition, but the iron components are heavily corroded and many will have to be replaced. Many accessories are missing and will have to be found. One of them has already been located and purchased.
In the packaging there is also an extremely rare ammunition container; the second one has yet to be sourced. We also have a few duplicates that could be used for exchange and as spare parts. There is a lot of work to return this turret in good condition but, with this rare item now acquired, we are on the right track for a complete restoration of the B-25J.
We sincerely thank all the generous donors who made this extremely important acquisition possible.
Covid-19 Crisis
In order to limit the risk of contamination, the Worshop is closed and visits to BAPA by the public are cancelled until further notice. We apologise for the inconvenience. BAPA will open its doors to the public again as soon as possible.
News 20210201: Cessna 310B OO-SEI in our workshop
This is it! The Cessna 310B OO-SEI has now arrived in our workshop! A small Belgian-built Clybouw helicopter has been retrieved as well.
Many thanks to the VLOC (Vlaams Luchtvaart Opleidings Centrum) in Oostende for this generous donation. Thank you to the teachers and students from this aviation training center who dismantled the Cessna allowing its road transportation.
Two trucks were necessary for this transport operation. A first flatbed truck for the fuselage and the wings and a second for the smaller parts and the helicopter (many thanks to Literie Libau!). We also thank the Old Flyers Club who bears the entire cost of transportation.
Thanks also to the Clybouw helicopter designer's son for authorizing the transfer of this aircraft to the BAPA.
Everything went well during this two days operation. We will now have to rearrange the workshop and plan the restoration of the Cessna.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bedankt aan de leraren en de studenten van de luchtvaartopleidingscentrum die de Cessna hebben ontmanteld om het wegvervoer mogelijk te maken.
Eveneens bedankt aan de ontwerper van de Clybouw helikopter voor de overdrachttoestemming van die toestel aan BAPA.
Alles was goed verlopen tijdens deze tweedaagse operatie. We zullen nu de werkplaats herschikken en de restauratie plannen.
Many thanks to the VLOC (Vlaams Luchtvaart Opleidings Centrum) in Oostende for this generous donation. Thank you to the teachers and students from this aviation training center who dismantled the Cessna allowing its road transportation.
Two trucks were necessary for this transport operation. A first flatbed truck for the fuselage and the wings and a second for the smaller parts and the helicopter (many thanks to Literie Libau!). We also thank the Old Flyers Club who bears the entire cost of transportation.
Thanks also to the Clybouw helicopter designer's son for authorizing the transfer of this aircraft to the BAPA.
Everything went well during this two days operation. We will now have to rearrange the workshop and plan the restoration of the Cessna.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bedankt aan de leraren en de studenten van de luchtvaartopleidingscentrum die de Cessna hebben ontmanteld om het wegvervoer mogelijk te maken.
Eveneens bedankt aan de ontwerper van de Clybouw helikopter voor de overdrachttoestemming van die toestel aan BAPA.
Alles was goed verlopen tijdens deze tweedaagse operatie. We zullen nu de werkplaats herschikken en de restauratie plannen.
To be continued...