In an ambitious feat of passion and expertise, Parnall Aircraft Company is restoring one of its two Spitfires – BL688 - to flying standard. The aircraft is already registered with the Civil Aviation Authority as G-CJWO and carries the military serial number BL688. The plane was operational during the Second World War, including on D Day.
The World's Busiest Spitfire
Our experienced engineering team are methodically restoring BL688 to flying condition with support from leading organisations in this field, including Prop shop Ltd. trading as the Aircraft Restoration Company, Historic Flying Ltd. at Duxford and Airframe Assemblies on the Isle of Wight. The fuselage is being constructed in a jig in the main workshop.
A Spitfire takes approximately 25,000 skilled man hours to construct with suitably experienced staff meeting the criteria of the Civil Aviation Authority. The wings alone will require around 14,000 manhours per pair. Original designs, plans and drawings can be faded, damaged or otherwise hard to read. As with all things aviation, there is a process to be followed and the instruction books do not always exist.
Pictures: our skilled engineers working on the 'St Ives' Spitfire
Restoration
The Future
BL688 will be able represent the ethos and expertise of the Parnall Aircraft Company at local events in Cornwall and further afield.
Register Your Interest
Whether you are looking for an historic reconstruction that adds gravity to your collection or a sculptural centrepiece of iconic British craftsmanship, you can rely that our sophisticated aircraft are worthy of our name. Pride and preservation are at the heart of what we do, making sure we stay true to the skills and innovation demonstrated by the legacy of the original Parnall Aircraft Ltd. To register your interest in owning a Spitfire, or leasing the aircraft for an event or exhibition, please fill in the form below with your details and we will be in touch asap.
