Catalina

Thats the one, I hope it's still in airworthy condition. Would be a shame to see such an historical aircraft disappear. Anyone know what has happened to it. Back in the early 80's when it was in Mt.Isa I had a bit of a chat with the pilot. Apparently it had been then recently upgraded with later Wright Cyclone engines. I asked about its seaworthy condition and was told that it had some corrosion in the hull and with the magnetometer cables strung from nose to wingtip to under the tailplane assembly it was not possible to use it on water. The wingtip floats would foul on the cable as well. Great photo mate. I should have taken a few of it at the time but never had a camera with me. I think the aust rego was VH-EXG. Maybe a search on the internet may pick it up.

What ever happened to the Catalina that used to be at Catalina Park Katoomba? Although that one disappeared some years before the 1980's.

Just had a look on the internet and it was acquired by the RAAF Museaum at Point Cook and is being rebuilt as a PBY-5A. The hull section is on display there and work is continuing on the wing section. I am pleased that this aircraft is being preserved as it does have some history to it.:):):)

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Originally Posted by Lotz-A-Landies

What ever happened to the Catalina that used to be at Catalina Park Katoomba? Although that one disappeared some years before the 1980's.

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Sorr, added to wrong post

whilst on the topic of amphibians, are there any sunderlands left flying?

This isn't a Catalina but some damn impressive photos here of a Martin Mars. Claimed to be World's Largest Operational Flying Boat. Check out the low pass at 190MPH. How low?
click the below to find out.

2007 Nightmare Mars.Hawaii

that pilot has balls!

On the subject of flying boats, does anyone know what happened to the ex-Ansett Sandringhams? Last heard of in the Caribbean after the airstrip was built at Lord Howe, but that was thirty years ago.

John

Others may correct me however I believe 2 ex Ansett Sandringhams survive.

The Kermit Weekes collection in the USA has what was when they purchased it was the last flying Sunderland. Do not know if it has flown since.

Other in Southampton UK which was painted in Ansett colours in their aviation museum. Have not seen this museum advertised for some time. Will have to make some enquiries next time I am down that way.

Wouldn't Rose Bay in Sydney Harbour been a sight during WW2 which all these ships of the skies were purported to use for their base.