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Post by mumbles on Feb 3, 2006 23:47:29 GMT 12
I suspect this is some sort of rite of passage thing that aviation enthusisasts must go through. I've noticed lately that most of my childhood favourite types are retired or retiring. A few examples: The F-14 is now on it's final fleet cruise, steadily being replaced by the Super Hornet. (Incidentally, of all the types visible in 'Top Gun' (A-4, A-6, EA-6, A-7, F-5, F-14, E-2C), only the EA-6, E-2 and F-5 are still in service after this year. That was filmed 20 years ago mind.) The SAAB Viggen has just been retired. Still a cool shape, even if it looks a bit crude next to a Gripen. The EAP (technology demonstrator for the Eurofighter) first flew 20 years ago. The SR-71 was retired for the last time in 1999 Let's not talk about our own A-4's. Or Concorde. The Tornado has been in service 20+ years. As has the F/A-18. The F-111 only flies in Australia. RAF and US Phantoms are long gone. As are Buccaneers and Lightnings. And the Friendships and B737-200's, Bristol Freighters and Argosies My nephews favourite jet is the F/A-22. At his age my favourite was the FA-18. Not sure if there is a point to all this but I feel suddenly older.
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Post by Dave Homewood on Feb 4, 2006 12:47:38 GMT 12
I know what you mean.
At least the RNZAF still flies 40+ year old planes to soothe us.
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Post by turboNZ on Feb 9, 2006 15:51:04 GMT 12
I remember as a young boy watching the Safe Air Freighters with their Hercules radials rumbling out of Akl Airport. I often wondered how they were flying as they were so slow and really looked like they struggled for altitude...
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Post by Dave Homewood on Feb 25, 2006 20:59:08 GMT 12
Just to make you feel better about getting a little older (ie into your 30's or beyond...) we are now old enough to tut at the younger generation for their naiivity. See this article here (especialy the list down the page). We are old enough to know better. masseynews.massey.ac.nz/2006/Press_Releases/02-24-06.html
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