Vintage aircraft a popular attraction

More than 500 people have visited the Stratford aerodrome to see the T-51 Mustang since it arrived in February.

The Titan T-51 Mustang is a three-quarter scale replica of the P-51 Mustang, an American fighter plane used extensively during World War II and the Korean war as well as other conflicts.

President of the Stratford Aero Club, Nick Furmage, says the plane has been "a real drawcard since it arrived, and no wonder, it is a fantastic plane to watch let alone to fly in".

It is economical to operate, he says, because this particular one, built in Matamata from a kit bought from the USA, is powered by a 100hp engine, unlike the original Mustang's 1500hp engine.

Having had the pleasure of taking a seat in this microlight for a trial flight, I agree with Nick, nothing can beat the feeling of flying through a clear Taranaki sky in this kitset plane.

With chief flight instructor Wayne Richmond in front of me, controlling the plane, I was able to sit back, in the surprisingly roomy passenger seat, and enjoy the view.

The T-51 is small, but that doesn't stop it from performing fantastically when airborne. Flying over Stratford, the plane seemed to effortlessly glide through the sky. With just the plexi-glass canopy over our heads, it felt as though there was nothing between us and the clouds, I cannot believe how clear the view was, nor how much we could see.

After we had been flying steadily for some time, Wayne asked me if I wanted to have the plane "roll over". I am so glad I agreed, while it sounds terrifying, it has to rate as one of the most amazing experiences of my life, gently rolling over in the clouds like the birds that were in the air space below us.

Wayne wasn't surprised by how much I enjoyed the experience, he says flying the T-51 is a pleasure that he enjoys sharing with others.

Wayne is one of the three instructors at the club qualified to fly the advanced microlite recreational two-seater plane, and he believes it will become a popular option for people looking to book a trial flight.

I would certainly recommend it to anyone, whether you are already a keen flyer, or like me, have just looked longingly at these graceful planes in the sky and wondered what it would feel like to be in one.

Anyone interested in what the Stratford Aero Club has to offer, or who would like to find out more about trial flights, is welcome to call Nick on 020 404 28854.

Would you like to experience the thrills and fun of a trial flight in the T-51?

The kind folks at Stratford Aero Club have offered us the chance to give one of our readers the chance to enjoy a trial flight in the Mustang T-51. To enter the draw, simply email your name and contact details to advertising@stratfordpress.co.nz or call us on 06 765 5471 and leave the details with us.

Competition closes noon, April 22 and a winner will be drawn that afternoon. Entrants must be over the age of 18 and weigh less than 85kgs.