In “Visiting Leicester: Revisiting Noel’s Flight Training Location,” Noel Philips takes you on a journey to the place where he first learned to fly. Joined by his first officer, Sam, they explore the Shuttleworth Collection, an aviation museum filled with vintage planes that are still airworthy. After a smooth landing at Old Warden airfield, Noel and Sam continue their adventure in Leicester, where they visit the airfield and see the plane Noel used to learn to fly 20 years ago. The trip concludes with a bumpy flight back to Sandtoft, leaving you with a sense of nostalgia and a newfound appreciation for the world of aviation.
In this captivating video, Noel Philips shares his personal experience of returning to the place that ignited his love for flying. Alongside Sam, his first officer, they embark on an exciting journey that includes exploring an aviation museum, witnessing vintage planes in action, and revisiting the airfield where Noel’s aviation adventure began. With each step, their enthusiasm for aviation shines through, leaving you inspired and ready to embark on your own airborne adventures. So buckle up, sit back, and get ready to soar through the skies with Noel and Sam on this memorable trip down memory lane.
Visiting the Shuttleworth Collection
Introduction to the Shuttleworth Collection
Welcome to the article on visiting the Shuttleworth Collection! In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on a journey to the historic Old Warden airfield, where you can explore a fascinating collection of vintage planes. The Shuttleworth Collection is renowned for housing some of the oldest airworthy planes in the world, including a Spitfire and the world’s oldest flying airplane. Join us as we delve into the rich history and thrilling experiences that await you at this aviation museum.
Flying to Old Warden airfield
To embark on this adventure, we first need to fly to Old Warden airfield. The video by Noel Philips showcases the smooth landing he and his first officer, Sam, enjoyed at the airfield. They flew a Cessna 172 and made their way towards the small town of Biggleswade, where Old Warden airfield is located. The picturesque surroundings and the quaint airfield make for a delightful flying experience.
Exploring the vintage planes
Once you arrive at Old Warden airfield, you will be greeted by the breathtaking Shuttleworth Collection. This collection boasts a variety of vintage planes, many of which are still airworthy and participate in air displays. One of the highlights of the collection is a Spitfire, a famous aircraft from World War II. Seeing this iconic plane up close is a truly memorable experience.
But the real gem of the collection is the world’s oldest flying airplane, the Bleriot Type XI. Built in 1909, this incredible piece of aviation history holds the distinction of being the first plane to cross the English Channel. Its presence at the Shuttleworth Collection is a testament to the passion for flight and the preservation of aviation heritage.
Highlights of the collection
While exploring the Shuttleworth Collection, you will come across various other notable aircraft. From an autogyro featured in a James Bond film to a 1941 Supermarine Spitfire, each plane has its own story to tell. The collection offers a unique opportunity to witness these magnificent flying machines in all their glory.
Revisiting Leicester
Arriving in Leicester
After their visit to the Shuttleworth Collection, Noel and Sam embark on the next leg of their journey. They head to Leicester, a place with significant meaning for Noel as it is where he learned to fly 20 years ago. Landing at the familiar airfield, they are greeted by the nostalgia and memories of Noel’s early aviation days.
Visiting the airfield
The airfield in Leicester holds a special place in Noel’s heart. It was a place where he honed his skills and embarked on his aviation adventure. Stepping foot on this airfield after two decades brings back a flood of memories and a sense of appreciation for how far he has come in his journey as a pilot.
Seeing Noel’s first training plane
As Noel and Sam wander around the airfield, they stumble upon G-BKGW, the plane in which Noel learned to fly. This particular aircraft holds immense significance for Noel as it witnessed some of his most memorable moments in aviation. It’s a heartwarming sight to see the plane still in existence and a reminder of the joyous times Noel experienced during his training.
Memories of learning to fly
With every corner of the airfield triggering memories, Noel takes a moment to reflect on his journey as a pilot. Revisiting the place where it all began allows him to understand the growth he has achieved as a pilot over the years. These cherished memories serve as a reminder of the passion and dedication required to pursue a career in aviation.
Flight back to Sandtoft
Preparing for the return journey
After immersing themselves in the nostalgia of Leicester, it’s time for Noel and Sam to prepare for their flight back to Sandtoft. This leg of the journey marks the end of their visit to the places where Noel learned to fly. As they check the necessary equipment and perform pre-flight checks, a sense of excitement lingers in the air.
Experiencing a bumpy flight
As the plane takes off, the journey back to Sandtoft proves to be a bit bumpy. Turbulence shakes the aircraft, providing a thrilling experience for the pilot and his first officer. Despite the challenges of the flight, Noel and Sam remain calm and navigate their way back safely. Turbulence serves as a reminder that flying is not always smooth sailing, but it adds to the adventure and excitement of aviation.
Reflections on the trip
As the journey comes to a close, Noel takes a moment to reflect on the incredible experiences he and Sam shared during their visit to the Shuttleworth Collection and Leicester. The trip was not only a physical journey but also a nostalgic one, evoking fond memories of Noel’s early days as a pilot. It served as a reminder of the paths we take in life and the significance of past experiences in shaping who we are today.
Conclusion of the journey
The journey back to Sandtoft marks the end of a remarkable adventure for Noel and Sam. From exploring vintage planes at the Shuttleworth Collection to revisiting the place where Noel learned to fly, each moment was filled with wonder and reflection. This journey showcased the power of aviation to connect individuals with their past and the continued growth and learning that comes with it.
In conclusion, visiting the Shuttleworth Collection and returning to the place of Noel’s aviation beginnings was a truly special experience. It allowed him to appreciate the progression of his career while immersing himself in the rich history of aviation. Whether you’re a seasoned pilot or an aviation enthusiast, taking a similar journey can provide a sense of connection to the roots of flight and a deeper appreciation for the wonders of aviation.