Great photos thanks for sharing them, more info on this aircraft from the HARS website
www.hars.org.au
Lockheed Neptune P2V-7 (A89-273) - VH-IOY
This aircraft is one of two Lockheed Neptune P2V-7s operated by the Society. P2V-7 Neptune A89-273 (later designated SP-2H) was built at Lockheed's Burbank plant in California, USA at a cost of $818,452.33. The manufacturers serial number was No. 7273. BuAer No. 149,073, being delivered to the RAAF and arriving in Townsville on the 10th March 1962. It was allocated to No.10 Squadron, which then operated out of Townsville, as an Anti-Submarine Reconnaissance aircraft, and was one of a total of twenty four Neptunes operated by RAAF no.10 and No.11 Squadrons. It served with No. 10 Squadron from March, 1962 until being retired from RAAF service in May 1977 when it was placed in storage at Townsville awaiting disposal. During its years of service A89-273 logged a total of 5476 flying hours.
Long after the aircraft was de-commissioned it was acquired from a private owner in Townsville by members of the Society in a partly restored condition.Since its total restoration, over ten years ago, this aircraft has been on the Air Show circuit thrilling audiences with an imaginative flying routine.
In November 1996, the Society commenced an extensive maintenance program on Neptune A89-273 from nose to tail, culminating in the aircraft being declared airworthy again in January 1998. All maintenance was carried out by our own engineering team.
In November 1999, the Society had great pride in returning 273 back to its old squadron at Edinburgh Air Force Base in South Australia to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the formation of No.10 Squadron in 1939. Edinburgh is now the home base for this squadron.
Neptune A89-273 VH-IOY is the only former RAAF Lockheed Neptune flying in Australia and is maintained, operated and crewed by members of HARS who maintain a high degree of maintenance and safety, and continually strive to maintain the aircraft in immaculate condition. With large amounts of spare parts and engines available it is anticipated that Neptune A89-273 will continue to be maintained in a flying condition and appearing at air shows throughout Australia for many years to come.
Login
Register
FAQ
Search
