Popham - Auster Events

THIS summer marked a special occasion for 70-year-old Jed Mackie and his Auster, G-ARRX, based at Popham in Hampshire.

In June, Jed flew his 60-year old Auster Mk6 with a 93-year-old passenger on board, giving a combined age of 223. "That must be a record!" Jed said.

"He was a very fit man for his years; Austers are not the easiest aircraft to get in and out of but he had no trouble. I hope I am as fit when I am 93!"

Jed's Auster was built in 1946 and served with the Army before changing hands several times until Jed bought it in 1987. After more than six years sourcing parts and completing the rebuild, G-ARRX flew from London Heathrow - where Jed worked - in 1994.

In September, fellow Auster pilot, Richard Webber, was awarded the Miller Memorial Trophy at the Popham fly-in for his restoration of G-ARNO. Dick Richardson, who runs Popham, presented him with the Trophy. The fly-in was attended by a total of 18 Austers.
W: www.popham-airfield.co.uk

Words Kirsten Corrigan