@SimonBloomer last I heard there is funding for one last blast on the British circuit in 2012, as long as the money keeps coming in. I'll be going to waddington, the vulcans spiritual home. Apparently the airframe and engines run out of life 2013/14.
As a small boy used to see these leaving Warton in Lancashire , A flash of sunlight off the metalwork , a roar of the engines & (naughty ) the boom of them going supersonic . Glad to know my grandad had something to do with Lightenings :)
@glenxh558 I'm not sure of the current status of the aircraft at ThunderCity. One of the 4 Lightnings in this video crashed during an airshow a while back, but the other three were still flying last I heard. They also have Hunters, but seeing a Vulcan would be my childhood wet dream...
One of most vivid memories, as a 9 year old kid, is standing in the playground at school and seeing a flash of chrome against a clear blue sky going up like a rocket, and then I heard the thunderous sound. That was my first Lightning.
yes the worlds first fighter to supercruise and the finest cold war intercepter of its day, an F6 intercepted a U2 at over 62000 ft when the USAF thought it was safe and went on to over 82000 ft in a vertical climb, even by todays standards it is one of the fastest and fastest climbing fighters in the world, the wings were swept at such an angle that the aerilons were in the wing tips
@fairclought7 hi there sorry but pilot hale looked down on u2 spy plane at almost 88000ft and Americans god bless little socks had a fright when lightning was 8000ft above them this plane was the only plane at this time that could catch CONCORDE on a tail end interception course and catch it no other plane f16 f15 mirage jets no one could do this it was far in front of its time its history now and then the Brits had tsr2 wow
Yep, widely rumored to be early supercruising fighter aircraft with excellent handling qualities the Brits. described as "Vice-less" Would you call that wing plan form a notched delta or just a fully swept wing? The rather unusual over/under engine configuration combined with the Shock cone nose air inlet common on Soviet aircraft of the time seems to have served the English BAE Electric Lightning Jet rather well by the devotion it's pilots showed for this fine example of fighting aircraft.
there is one in the states but sadly none in the uk due to the CAA (campaign against aviation) putting the blocks on it.they tried like hell to stop the vulcan.
I was at Biggin Hill doing crowd control at the end of the runway, when this lightning came over and went balistic. The rate of climb is out of this world, Later that day with my back to the runway a vulcan did a touch and go right over my head. I remember laying on the floor and watching the sand vibrate, while I was trying to squash my ears against my head.
Saw a Lightning about 1973? at Barton Aerodrome, Manchester. It had been a quiet display/day up till the Lightning passed slowly over the runway and then lit up the afterburner!!!!!!!! Ferkin 'ell I have never seen anything shift so fast or so loudly. I'll never forget it or the beautiful Vulcan which graced us as well. My best wishes to you heroes who keep them flying today....Top Blokes (and Lasses).
I sometimes hear aircraft taking off down at Ringway, which is a good 8 miles away; I'm curious as to if the Lightning could have been heard here too, considering it'd be much louder and Barton isn't too far away from Ringway.
@laservader1 This video was taken at an airshow in South Africa. Thundercity in Cape Town own the only servicable Lightnings in the world. Untill 14 November 2009 they had 4. Unfortunatly there is only 3 left now. 1 two seater and 2 one seaters. They also own the only 3 servicable Baccaneers in the world and some Hawker Hunters. Check out there website.
I live in Cape Town and so made sure I didn't miss this airshow - the Lightnings were definitely the highlight. Seriously a sight to behold - the sound they make is unreal.
Very sad to hear about the one that crashed yesterday - my thoughts are with the Thundercity guys and the pilot's family.
Two uncles of mine flew the lightnings, I used to watch them as a kid, love that noise, love the aircraft, and I hope I can make it to South Africa to see them fly again.
The EASA have to issue a flight permit to all aircraft to ensure they are airworthy. After the MoD had finished with the Lightning of course there is no need to maintain the permit so it falls void.
Also airframes and engines only have limited flight hours. Once this is exhausted, spare parts or replacements will be required, which works out very expensive for private owners.
The Vulcan XH558 needed over £7million to get it flying again!
I was also at the AAD Airshow. What a show!!! But the icing was these British Electric Lightnings from Thunder City performing, and the cherry on top of that was seeing them going supersonic! AWESOME!!!
IHateTom, emilyabbie & all Brits who have not lost their minds: So when are the British people going to do something about this!!?? Not just Trident, Air Defense, but your navy, the shortages your soldiers are dealing with, & all the other things that have weakened your nation!
that is really sad britain invented the jet and if it werent for our tech you wouldnt of broke the sound barrier we have the worlds strongest army and the most naval ships in the world also so were the strongest nation in the world for our size
I think all the M.P scum in the UK should give all the money they have cheated the British tax payer into getting these beautiful jets back onto British soil. BASTARDS!!!!!
they're too busy killing off trident and slashing the budget of our air defence squadrons. In one fell swoop ridding us of our strategic deterrent and national air security. Well at least their pond's working now.
It was 50 years ago and the Brits were pioneers but by modern standards they were inefficient, unreliable and not so versatile. I don`t think the authorities will let them fly here although after the Vulcan who knows. These aircraft are doing 21st century stuff with 1950`s technology - the Brits are still good at inventing things actually - just rubbish at making decisions.
Do your research. Max altitude, top speed rate of climb, power to weight ratio, low and high speed agility, 1st ever HOTAS, inboard weapons/rocket bay, 1st ever airframe weher pilot was limiting factor, etc etc.
These were from another ruddy planet in their day, like the Harrier was.
We Brits aren't bad at decisions, with all due respect our failing is we just have more and more "any way the wind blows" people like you appearing every year.
I think you`ve misunderstood me. I`m a Lightning fan and it was really decades ahead of its time - so often the British are pioneers of stuff but I`m a bit frustrated we have fallen back now.
The Lightning had a short range and burned up fuel quickly. You have got to admit that many aircraft/pilots were lost -although NCAP 5 star compared to the Starfighter. I don`t think it was so versatile carrying weapons - certainly the Tornado was a long way ahead in that respect.
So sorry for misunderstanding, it is just America bought up Europe + British brains and before that was an era where we Brits were as alive and bright as the German scientists were in WW2.
Take the HP Vulcan and Victor, they are works of art (to Hell with the B2) and the Victor looks like something from outer space - Amazing times.
Again sorry my friend. At least with the Lightning we all know where Anderson got the shape for Thunderbird 1 - LOL.
Did we really make that here in Britain, what with Honda or Nissan , and did brussels allow this ,crumbs we must have been ..............aaaaaggggghhhhh helllllllllppp us get rid of brussells
Give it a rest you crusty Daily Mail-reading cranks. Brussels had fuck all to do with the demise of EE and the Lightning. That was the good old British government. We weren't even in the EEC then. Anyway, what does the EU have to do with Honda and Nissan?
And if the welfare state supposedly brought Britain down, how did we manage in the 50s and 60s when it was much more generous than today? I suppose you cunts won't be collecting your old-age pensions, eh, given the perils of the welfare state?
i guess by the language in your comment kind of hits home why it has all gone wrong! A shortage of education on your part ,dont reply with foul language. If you do not agree fine ,but your attitude is poor.
At the 1st airshow I visited in the UK,the 1st plane to display was a Lightning~ seen nothing like the way this plane climbs, vertical,it kept going , and going ,2nd plane to display, a Vulcan, my hearing wasn't right for a week lol.Great British aircraft,its my understanding that many of the British aircraft designers and workmen crossed the pond to remain in work~
The usual quibble: a matchless interceptor, but woefully short on fuel and not able to carry much except a couple of Firestreaks. Nothing on earth is like it though: light the burners, stand it on its tail and disappear upwards...
some things i`m afraid are just hopeless. too little too late.nothing stays the same.I might go to south africa to see the only 3 lightnings left take to the skys. will let you know if i find them lol.
I`m afraid it`s all gone forever.The whole country has been sold down the line thanks to Blair and co.Theres not half as many jets at the main Duxford airshow any more due to noise pollution which is where i first saw the lightning.Awesome aircraft.
For me the Lightning is still the greatest true interceptor fighter ever built. The lightning relied on the skill of the individual pilot, like the Spitfire before. I'll never forget the last time I saw a Lightning fly in the UK. I knew it was him from the unbelieveable roar. He rotated, held it till the end of the runway and then went vertically up! The noise was staggering as was the sight of him becoming just a faint glint of sun off his canopy at around 30000 feet! Magic.
No doubt the pages of you tube have listed this Immrotal piece of British aviation in all its glory from the facts to the records set.Total travesty that the UK is not allowed to fly one in civilian hands, I work with historic aviation and now a few who would relish the chance to put the last of the Britsh Sportscars through its pace.
Hard to believe in the 60's this remarkable aircraft went from 0 to 60'000 ft in less than 3 minutes...no wonder the pilots called it the frightning!!
Banned i'm afraid. They are considered too dangerous by the CAA to be in civilian hands. (Due to the immense speed and climb rate). A civilin Mirage III has just become airworthy, and this is the most potent civilian owned aircraft in Europe.
In 1984, during a major NATO exercise, Flt Lt Mike Hale intercepted an American U-2 at a height which they had previously considered safe from interception. Records show that Hale climbed to 88,000 ft (26,800 m) in his F3 Lightning.
In British Airways trials in April 1985, Concorde was offered as a target to NATO fighters including F-15s, F-16s, F-14s, Mirages, and F-104s - and guess what? Only Lightning XR749, flown by the legendary Mike Hale who described her as "a very hot ship, even for a Lightning", managed to overtake Concorde on a stern conversion intercept. 'Nuff said!
i remember reading somewhere that they have hell getting these to airshows because they run out of fuel in a stupidly short time. heres to getting one airborne in britain now we've got the vulcan going again (displayed over my house on saturday!!!!)
On a silly note- did you hear the Shell advert in the commentary?
PS- A former Soviet pilot I met in Jakarta (I think he had something to do with their Sukhoi's) was very impressed by the EE Lightning- and said they considered far more a serious threat than the US gear- but knew it was range limited.
No-one knows haw fast the Lightning was. I used to work with an ex RAF Fighter controller. He told me they took one to altitude, refuelled in mid air, headed for base and opened up fully. Got to Mach 2.65 in a diving approach, and landed on fumes. Lightnings go fuel critical as soon as they start up.
Disgrace that these aren't allowed to fly any more. One of the greatest bits of aircraft history ever, grounded. Just like Concorde. Seeing the Vulcan return to the air recently was wonderful though
It's silly that something as complex as the Vulcan can still get the go ahead to fly around the UK's airspace - and god bless that! - but why not the Lightning? Not even for the RAF's birthday, that's shameful.
Can anybody shed light to why it can't be flown again in UK airspace? In a nutshell?
No...i'm sure a lottery fund much like XH558's would be set-up...and Brunty's taxiable aircrafts would definitely be able to 'hop'.
I don't think cost...albeit a small contributing factor...is the issue. There's more to it...i heard complexities in maintennace and noise were determining factors.
Cost doesn't worry Mike Beachy Head (Thunder & Lightnings) as he fly's four...plus a few hunters & buccaneers...
fantastic video its such a shame that such a british icon is not allowed to fly in the u.k its digusting if only they could allow one to fly at iat this year for the R A F s birthday NO CHANCE
Just think if they would have built the Lightning 2,& gone ahead with TRS 2, not forgetting the Buccanear 2 project, the RAF would have been a world Leader, but the labour Gov in the 60s screwed that up by cut backs & buying American Rubbish.
Not many people know the fact that the Indian Air Force could have been the first foreign customer.However they rejected it and went for the MiG21 instead on account of high cost and lack of a gun in early examples.
pay my respects 4 posting-am a66yr old painter and sculptor-the lightning and tsr2 are the essence of british originality in concept and design-stealth and wealth,usa are an excuse at being top-gun tiny tom cruise heroes in their tomcat tincans!
such a good sight to see such a classic being where it should be,in the air,unlike the country where it was designed who's authorities won't let it fly,such a shame,thank's for the vid'.
damn, it's a pity they didn't want to break the sound barrier, lol they said they didn't feel like sorting out all the law suit they would get if they did, and all the window repairs lol.
Also,this jet took a lot of luster off of the the F-104 Starfighter. Outclimbed it easily, and was faster. At 50,000 ft/min. it's pretty awesome even by today's standards. The acceleration and performance in its time were nothing short of spectacular! It even was able to intercept a U-2 at previously though safe altitudes, Flt Lt Mike Hale in 1984 at 88,000 ft!
Actually, yes, In German service, 292 of 916 Starfighters crashed, claiming the lives of 115 pilots. It was called Witwenmacher " Widowmaker" , or Erdnagel "ground nail." It also had many incidents outside of Germany.
My statements about aircraft lost were indeed in reference to the F-104. Thats why I stated that I would indeed prefer the "Lightning"...better performance, and safer.
This aircraft was the 1st capable of supercruise! So, chew on that all you Raptor fans who always brag about supercruise somehow being a Raptor exclusive!!! Seems those witty Brits beat you to it by oh, say roundabout 40 years...ouch!
Do you know what the ultimate "supercruiser" was? You'd be surprised - Concorde! Concorde cruised at Mach 2 on dry thrust only. Afterburning was only used for take-off & acceleration to transonic speed. That's why they used turbojets (Olympus) rather than turbofans.
correct :) i didnt realise the lightning also did it
tsr 2 concord and the lightning were just epic aircraft ( the only time the tsr went supersonic with only 1 afterburner lit it ran away from a lightning!!!!!!
Brilliant. I was with the Saudi Airforce for 7 1/2 years in the 60's 70's. Never tire of seeing it fly, what a joy to be invoved with them for so long. Not the easiest of aircraft to service but then again not all that gives pleasure is easily obtained!!!
I did hear a story of an excercise in the USA, possibly Red Flag. It's said that a Vulcan was flying at low level towards a target but that a USAF jet "killed" him before he could get there. As the Vulcan peeled away there were 2 Lightnings beneath him and they took the target out! Probably an urban myth but I'd love to find out that it's true! Anyone?
one red flag story is that in the 82 excerise, the usaf had no answers at all against the buccaneer.Thought the RAF were just dangerous flying that low.Well all i can say is all thar training in canada payed off.
Fantastic aeroplane, it's such a shame that it's no longer flying in England. I recall being at Mildenhall in the late '80s, a single seater and a 2 seater were on static display. At the end of the show we joined the MASSIVE queue to leave and they took off in formation, did a low level right hand circuit and came screaming down the centreline. Both went vertical with vapour clouds around them, utterly breathtaking! That's the last I ever saw of the lightning in the air :o(
Another story that did the rounds some time back was that of an RAF Lightning "intercepting" and overtaking Concorde as it cruised at Mach 2.05 at 65,000 ft. Impressive, if true!
Thats not true either, Brian Carroll a Cheif Lightning Pilot took a Lightning to 87,300ft and another lghtning F3 went to 88,000 to mock intercept a U2
Nevertheless, its fairly well known that, somewhere over Scotland, two lightnings intercepted a U2 at 80,000 by diving on it. It happened during a NATO exercise or similar.
When the TSR2 was being tested the lightnings were used as chase planes. It climbed on one engine with reheat and left the lightnings behind. Unfortunately, another Labour government were in charge at the time and scrapped the whole thing. Shame. Now I wonder why we are no longer world leaders in aviation?
My favourite aeroplane too, I used to nag my dad to take me to Handon museum to ogle it. Drove him mad. Brilliant aircraft & the engine sound in flight is truly music to my ears. Cheers for posting this. Made me very nostalgic
Thanks for posting this vid. I grew up near Wattisham so Lightinings filled my childhood. Now at 40 I just went solo on my PPL.. this vid had decided it, I MUST GO TO THUNDERCITY AND FLY IN A LIGHTNING!
Dont believe anything written about this planes performance in books or anything. This plane is simply awesome as much as it was fairly secret.
In 1984, during a major NATO exercise, Flt Lt Mike Hale intercepted an American U-2 at a height which they had previously considered safe from interception. Records show that Hale climbed to 88,000 ft (26,800 m) in his F3 Lightning.
I was lucky enough to fly T5 XS451 (the silver 2 seater)in April 2006, with Thunder City in Cape Town. a REAL LIFE CHANGING EXPERIENCE!! The team at Thunder City do an awesome job in keeping these beautiful machines going. I have loved the Lightning since watching them over the gate at Binbrook since aged 5. I served in the RAF as an airframe engineer just to late to work on Lightnings, having to sort out Harriers instead...booo hooo!!
The first time I ever saw one close up was at Bentwaters air show. It rolled down the runway and lifted a few feet off, retracted its gear, picking up speed all the time, then as it passed the grandstand, the pilot rotated into a vertical climb. The sound was incredible. That day I decided to join the RAF!
Absolutly 100% awsome. My Father was a pilot and displayed the Lightning so i have been bought up with the the plane. Dont you find it so so sad that the younger generation will never have the pleasure of seeing hearing and feeling this wonderful aircraft? i know i do. well done, the video bought back alot of lovely memories. Steve.
Thanks for the videom I served witht he Royal Air Force at Binbrook Lincolnshire, I was lucky enough to get a flight in a T-Bird (2 seater) and took part in low level combat intercept with another Lightning. John.
@SimonBloomer last I heard there is funding for one last blast on the British circuit in 2012, as long as the money keeps coming in. I'll be going to waddington, the vulcans spiritual home. Apparently the airframe and engines run out of life 2013/14.
paddy689909 4 months ago
As a small boy used to see these leaving Warton in Lancashire , A flash of sunlight off the metalwork , a roar of the engines & (naughty ) the boom of them going supersonic . Glad to know my grandad had something to do with Lightenings :)
i'm all tingly now
sprinter160bhp 8 months ago
@glenxh558 I'm not sure of the current status of the aircraft at ThunderCity. One of the 4 Lightnings in this video crashed during an airshow a while back, but the other three were still flying last I heard. They also have Hunters, but seeing a Vulcan would be my childhood wet dream...
SimonBloomer 9 months ago
@SimonBloomer , get your arse on a plane, and come to RIAT here in the UK in july, could be xh558's last display season due to funding.
bigchiefmingingbolok 9 months ago
One of most vivid memories, as a 9 year old kid, is standing in the playground at school and seeing a flash of chrome against a clear blue sky going up like a rocket, and then I heard the thunderous sound. That was my first Lightning.
amron2006 9 months ago
yes the worlds first fighter to supercruise and the finest cold war intercepter of its day, an F6 intercepted a U2 at over 62000 ft when the USAF thought it was safe and went on to over 82000 ft in a vertical climb, even by todays standards it is one of the fastest and fastest climbing fighters in the world, the wings were swept at such an angle that the aerilons were in the wing tips
fairclought7 1 year ago
@fairclought7 The ailerons WERE the wingtips lol
SuperAncientmariner 1 year ago
@fairclought7 hi there sorry but pilot hale looked down on u2 spy plane at almost 88000ft and Americans god bless little socks had a fright when lightning was 8000ft above them this plane was the only plane at this time that could catch CONCORDE on a tail end interception course and catch it no other plane f16 f15 mirage jets no one could do this it was far in front of its time its history now and then the Brits had tsr2 wow
motorguzzi100 3 months ago
We should get one of these flying in Britain again.
stepheng1483 1 year ago 7
Nothing to do with congested airspace! It's the useless CAA not allowing them!
Green with envy.
edj66 1 year ago 3
Yep, widely rumored to be early supercruising fighter aircraft with excellent handling qualities the Brits. described as "Vice-less" Would you call that wing plan form a notched delta or just a fully swept wing? The rather unusual over/under engine configuration combined with the Shock cone nose air inlet common on Soviet aircraft of the time seems to have served the English BAE Electric Lightning Jet rather well by the devotion it's pilots showed for this fine example of fighting aircraft.
bigisezhi 1 year ago
@bigisezhi uuuuhh.... yes?
ballisticbastard 1 year ago
The commentator is loving it!!!! Great stuff . . .
updougdown 1 year ago
Lightnings were fucking awesome. Would probably still out-climb a lot of modern fighters.
monk3ypilot 1 year ago
quality
zedcell 1 year ago
After the SA crash that only leaves three lightning left flying. Anybody know if there are any Lightning flight restoration projects on the go?
bgibb101 2 years ago
@bgibb101
there are some kept flight ready and can do fast taxis only as unable to fly due to being in the UK
matto2k 1 year ago
Hi, just to add my two penath, our two Lightnings are kept in taxiable condition, this is along way from Flight ready
We have never had plans to fly either
Best regards
All in the LPG
320psi 1 year ago
There's one in the US being restored by the Anglo-American Lightning Organisation, but I don't know which state.
mrrmancunian 1 year ago
there is one in the states but sadly none in the uk due to the CAA (campaign against aviation) putting the blocks on it.they tried like hell to stop the vulcan.
steviep918273 1 year ago
I was at Biggin Hill doing crowd control at the end of the runway, when this lightning came over and went balistic. The rate of climb is out of this world, Later that day with my back to the runway a vulcan did a touch and go right over my head. I remember laying on the floor and watching the sand vibrate, while I was trying to squash my ears against my head.
New trousers required.
Seal00754 2 years ago
i saw the one lightning crash about 3 months ago at the bredaasdop airshow in overberg. pilot dave stock died
zelig4321 2 years ago
I was waiting for the commentator to to say "hey Broo, got any spare smooks?"
patlfdunn101 2 years ago
Saw a Lightning about 1973? at Barton Aerodrome, Manchester. It had been a quiet display/day up till the Lightning passed slowly over the runway and then lit up the afterburner!!!!!!!! Ferkin 'ell I have never seen anything shift so fast or so loudly. I'll never forget it or the beautiful Vulcan which graced us as well. My best wishes to you heroes who keep them flying today....Top Blokes (and Lasses).
lankylad50 2 years ago 3
I sometimes hear aircraft taking off down at Ringway, which is a good 8 miles away; I'm curious as to if the Lightning could have been heard here too, considering it'd be much louder and Barton isn't too far away from Ringway.
mrrmancunian 2 years ago
Gutted about the loss of the man and the machine. RIP.
A french test pilot once said "it flys like a mirage, but with two engines"
TheophilusPWildbeest 2 years ago
Great to see.I was at the "Last,last Lightning event" at Binbrook and it seemed like a funeral.Thanks.
ginnerthetosser 2 years ago
were is this i have never seen a lightning in the UK
laservader1 2 years ago
They don't fly in the UK, as the CAA do not take kindly to them.
qwertdr 2 years ago
dam buzz killers!
laservader1 2 years ago
@laservader1 This video was taken at an airshow in South Africa. Thundercity in Cape Town own the only servicable Lightnings in the world. Untill 14 November 2009 they had 4. Unfortunatly there is only 3 left now. 1 two seater and 2 one seaters. They also own the only 3 servicable Baccaneers in the world and some Hawker Hunters. Check out there website.
Rudolphlieb 2 years ago
I saw this display. Sad to hear that one of them has crashed. Condolences to Thunder City and the Stock family.
ubermarklar 2 years ago
I live in Cape Town and so made sure I didn't miss this airshow - the Lightnings were definitely the highlight. Seriously a sight to behold - the sound they make is unreal.
Very sad to hear about the one that crashed yesterday - my thoughts are with the Thundercity guys and the pilot's family.
soaring15eagle 2 years ago 3
the one that crashed is on the far right :( any idea on pilots name??
AdrianNtart 2 years ago
Pilot was ex-SAAF. Dave Stock
rodsmyboy 2 years ago
RAF pilots described it as "being saddled to a skyrocket"
Konabish 2 years ago 2
Indeed. The Lightening STILL retains the British climb to atitude record! Seriously fast machine-impressive!
LIVERPOOLSCOTTISH 2 years ago
i live in cape town, south africa...i must be the luckiest person
zelig4321 2 years ago 3
Lovely
Alnwick07 2 years ago
Two uncles of mine flew the lightnings, I used to watch them as a kid, love that noise, love the aircraft, and I hope I can make it to South Africa to see them fly again.
soquan 2 years ago
Worked in Saudi for 7+ yrs on Mk 53 and 55 versions, never tire of watching these vids, Thank god for Thunder City.....
dodgerinleeds 2 years ago
One of the world's most under-rated aircraft. Super-cruising way back then!
WinterBornActual 2 years ago 38
@WinterBornActual concord was super cruise
datzfast 1 year ago
Blimey, how many Lightenings have the South Africans got flying??!!!
I may have to go to South Africa :-o
SAHBfan 2 years ago 3
there 4
zelig4321 2 years ago
this is well cool, i'm really sad when uit comes to air recognition, but what the hell, how can you not be?
BRAVOTWOZEROSAS 2 years ago
Sweet lord jesus what a noise!!!!!
Brings a tear to the eye seeing this...
ShoeiBoy 2 years ago 2
why cant they fly in england can someone tell
pickmehair 2 years ago 2
The EASA have to issue a flight permit to all aircraft to ensure they are airworthy. After the MoD had finished with the Lightning of course there is no need to maintain the permit so it falls void.
Also airframes and engines only have limited flight hours. Once this is exhausted, spare parts or replacements will be required, which works out very expensive for private owners.
The Vulcan XH558 needed over £7million to get it flying again!
ROB38915003 2 years ago
It's a pity these aren't allowed to fly in Britain
theupsetter1969 2 years ago 3
I was also at the AAD Airshow. What a show!!! But the icing was these British Electric Lightnings from Thunder City performing, and the cherry on top of that was seeing them going supersonic! AWESOME!!!
PDTDrizzt 2 years ago
OH PLEASE BRING THEM TO ENGLAND :)
1975buddha 2 years ago 4
Didn't know there were any flying anywhere in the world, great to see four of them together!
Reorte 2 years ago 5
from certain angles it really looks like the Crusader!
AdrianNtart 2 years ago
Yeah, only the Lightning can go Mach 2.5!
AgentJayZ 2 years ago
huh? im talking about it looking alike, not speed :s
AdrianNtart 2 years ago
IHateTom, emilyabbie & all Brits who have not lost their minds: So when are the British people going to do something about this!!?? Not just Trident, Air Defense, but your navy, the shortages your soldiers are dealing with, & all the other things that have weakened your nation!
matapan50 2 years ago
that is really sad britain invented the jet and if it werent for our tech you wouldnt of broke the sound barrier we have the worlds strongest army and the most naval ships in the world also so were the strongest nation in the world for our size
FlyHighRC386 2 years ago
I think all the M.P scum in the UK should give all the money they have cheated the British tax payer into getting these beautiful jets back onto British soil. BASTARDS!!!!!
emilyabbie 2 years ago 2
pffft....
they're too busy killing off trident and slashing the budget of our air defence squadrons. In one fell swoop ridding us of our strategic deterrent and national air security. Well at least their pond's working now.
IHateTom 2 years ago
If your TV goes a knacker, we all know where there's a particuarly clean moat that could do with some crap in it!
helimeal 2 years ago
I stopped using my toilet 2 weeks ago... :D
IHateTom 2 years ago
Comment removed
teifileg 2 years ago
BAC Lightning 0-60,000ft a min enough said... Amazing aircraft!
rvsgamer 2 years ago 17
@rvsgamer sorry your wrong!....Dave Stock set the record for Speed Climb in the Lightning...Its just under 30,000 feet in 1 minute 42 seconds!!!!
DROPD5150 1 year ago
@DROPD5150 Dude either way it has a ceiliing of 60,000+ ft for a fighter at that time is amazing..... Nuff said.
rvsgamer 1 year ago
@rvsgamer Dont get me wrong Dude!....I love this Plane...Just stating some info!
DROPD5150 1 year ago
@rvsgamer That makes me one Proud Englishman:-))))) And in action a long time ago when I was born (1964) :-))))
Isochest 1 year ago
It was 50 years ago and the Brits were pioneers but by modern standards they were inefficient, unreliable and not so versatile. I don`t think the authorities will let them fly here although after the Vulcan who knows. These aircraft are doing 21st century stuff with 1950`s technology - the Brits are still good at inventing things actually - just rubbish at making decisions.
SimonDolan 2 years ago
Do your research. Max altitude, top speed rate of climb, power to weight ratio, low and high speed agility, 1st ever HOTAS, inboard weapons/rocket bay, 1st ever airframe weher pilot was limiting factor, etc etc.
These were from another ruddy planet in their day, like the Harrier was.
We Brits aren't bad at decisions, with all due respect our failing is we just have more and more "any way the wind blows" people like you appearing every year.
Get a grip, dont ask your wife if you agree.
MegaBrits 2 years ago
I think you`ve misunderstood me. I`m a Lightning fan and it was really decades ahead of its time - so often the British are pioneers of stuff but I`m a bit frustrated we have fallen back now.
The Lightning had a short range and burned up fuel quickly. You have got to admit that many aircraft/pilots were lost -although NCAP 5 star compared to the Starfighter. I don`t think it was so versatile carrying weapons - certainly the Tornado was a long way ahead in that respect.
SimonDolan 2 years ago
So sorry for misunderstanding, it is just America bought up Europe + British brains and before that was an era where we Brits were as alive and bright as the German scientists were in WW2.
Take the HP Vulcan and Victor, they are works of art (to Hell with the B2) and the Victor looks like something from outer space - Amazing times.
Again sorry my friend. At least with the Lightning we all know where Anderson got the shape for Thunderbird 1 - LOL.
MegaBrits 2 years ago 2
Still the best though to me certainly performance wise. You been to Bruntingthorpe?
SimonDolan 2 years ago
No I haven't but I would love to go. Have you?
MegaBrits 2 years ago
Probably in May I think if it happens.
SimonDolan 2 years ago
are they raf pilots?
grysjay 2 years ago
No, they are privateers...
SimonBloomer 2 years ago 3
@SimonBloomer are there any lightnings still flying ?, would love to see them at an airshow along with vulans and hunters.
glenxh558 9 months ago
Did we really make that here in Britain, what with Honda or Nissan , and did brussels allow this ,crumbs we must have been ..............aaaaaggggghhhhh helllllllllppp us get rid of brussells
bobbynogs17 2 years ago
Give it a rest you crusty Daily Mail-reading cranks. Brussels had fuck all to do with the demise of EE and the Lightning. That was the good old British government. We weren't even in the EEC then. Anyway, what does the EU have to do with Honda and Nissan?
And if the welfare state supposedly brought Britain down, how did we manage in the 50s and 60s when it was much more generous than today? I suppose you cunts won't be collecting your old-age pensions, eh, given the perils of the welfare state?
beastatlay 2 years ago
i guess by the language in your comment kind of hits home why it has all gone wrong! A shortage of education on your part ,dont reply with foul language. If you do not agree fine ,but your attitude is poor.
bobbynogs17 2 years ago
Way, way, way ahead of their time...
MegaBrits 2 years ago
lol, not the best at formation
1RAFJOE 2 years ago
These things could have sent the Russians crying home to their mommies.
Megaloryan 2 years ago 6
i wish they were allowed to fly in da uk
glenw89 3 years ago
Excellent, the T5 Trainer varient is what my Account is named in honour of
LightningT5 3 years ago
At the 1st airshow I visited in the UK,the 1st plane to display was a Lightning~ seen nothing like the way this plane climbs, vertical,it kept going , and going ,2nd plane to display, a Vulcan, my hearing wasn't right for a week lol.Great British aircraft,its my understanding that many of the British aircraft designers and workmen crossed the pond to remain in work~
frederickforlife 3 years ago
Yeah, Britain was Great - once- but socialists have ruined it forever- and overpopulation. The money has gone into benefits- not ariplanes- sadly.
Finglesham 3 years ago
Jesus, turbojets with afterburners... RRRKKKKHHHHHHH!!!!
(You are now officially deaf)
Kohsomusto 3 years ago
Fabulous.
At least we've still got a vulcan. Send them a fiver guys, they need it to keep Britain great.
TheophilusPWildbeest 3 years ago 2
Virtually nothing comes close to this magnificent plane
Weihrauch88 3 years ago 2
The usual quibble: a matchless interceptor, but woefully short on fuel and not able to carry much except a couple of Firestreaks. Nothing on earth is like it though: light the burners, stand it on its tail and disappear upwards...
Kohsomusto 3 years ago
some things i`m afraid are just hopeless. too little too late.nothing stays the same.I might go to south africa to see the only 3 lightnings left take to the skys. will let you know if i find them lol.
emilyabbie 3 years ago
I`m afraid it`s all gone forever.The whole country has been sold down the line thanks to Blair and co.Theres not half as many jets at the main Duxford airshow any more due to noise pollution which is where i first saw the lightning.Awesome aircraft.
emilyabbie 3 years ago 3
For me the Lightning is still the greatest true interceptor fighter ever built. The lightning relied on the skill of the individual pilot, like the Spitfire before. I'll never forget the last time I saw a Lightning fly in the UK. I knew it was him from the unbelieveable roar. He rotated, held it till the end of the runway and then went vertically up! The noise was staggering as was the sight of him becoming just a faint glint of sun off his canopy at around 30000 feet! Magic.
Wanobi99 3 years ago 6
I agree.next the true english will be banned.They would rather give the lotto money to some crap arts gallery and ponses from abroad.
emilyabbie 3 years ago 3
CAA = Campaign Against Aviation
Sterlingjob 3 years ago
No doubt the pages of you tube have listed this Immrotal piece of British aviation in all its glory from the facts to the records set.Total travesty that the UK is not allowed to fly one in civilian hands, I work with historic aviation and now a few who would relish the chance to put the last of the Britsh Sportscars through its pace.
Hard to believe in the 60's this remarkable aircraft went from 0 to 60'000 ft in less than 3 minutes...no wonder the pilots called it the frightning!!
LadyboyN 3 years ago 2
Banned i'm afraid. They are considered too dangerous by the CAA to be in civilian hands. (Due to the immense speed and climb rate). A civilin Mirage III has just become airworthy, and this is the most potent civilian owned aircraft in Europe.
NSE50Lion 3 years ago
Not allowed to fly in the UK because of the congested airspace says the commentator! Crap!
666nocturnal666 3 years ago
In 1984, during a major NATO exercise, Flt Lt Mike Hale intercepted an American U-2 at a height which they had previously considered safe from interception. Records show that Hale climbed to 88,000 ft (26,800 m) in his F3 Lightning.
digifotos 3 years ago 3
In British Airways trials in April 1985, Concorde was offered as a target to NATO fighters including F-15s, F-16s, F-14s, Mirages, and F-104s - and guess what? Only Lightning XR749, flown by the legendary Mike Hale who described her as "a very hot ship, even for a Lightning", managed to overtake Concorde on a stern conversion intercept. 'Nuff said!
8eatm0nster 2 years ago
is that "sid hale" by any chance??
steviep918273 2 years ago
Nope
8eatm0nster 2 years ago
I think we are talking about the same guy.He went on to fly F3s.I worked on the same sqn.We called him "sid".Maybe a nickname??
steviep918273 2 years ago
You're a luckier bloke than me Stevie... I knew the legend but not the man himself. Real pilots in real aircraft.
8eatm0nster 2 years ago 2
Quality post my friend, thanks. Would be worth the journey to SA have experienced this.
PRICEANDYP 3 years ago
i remember reading somewhere that they have hell getting these to airshows because they run out of fuel in a stupidly short time. heres to getting one airborne in britain now we've got the vulcan going again (displayed over my house on saturday!!!!)
badassbassplayer258 3 years ago
Yes i agree,we need something like a cold war memorial flight...Vulcan,Victor,Valiant in formation with a lightning of each wing???
devilonwizz2 3 years ago
brilliant idea, problem is there are no intact valiants left, the oh so wise government scrapped every last one
wildwattsy 3 years ago
The only fighter to have managed to intercept a U2.
roddy76to86 3 years ago 3
The commentator even says "he rolls the lightning over". Now try saying they were buccaneers...
tommo900 3 years ago
buccaneer????????? look at the wing shape, a buck is twice the size of a lightning( slight exaggeration)
bigchiefmingingbolok 3 years ago
are you blind they are clearly english electric lightnings ! as the title says....
farmerkristian 3 years ago
If the Soviets had built the Lightning it would still be in the air today!Waste not,want not.
numberstation 3 years ago
On a silly note- did you hear the Shell advert in the commentary?
PS- A former Soviet pilot I met in Jakarta (I think he had something to do with their Sukhoi's) was very impressed by the EE Lightning- and said they considered far more a serious threat than the US gear- but knew it was range limited.
turdtrousers 3 years ago
The only plane ever to overtake a Concorde in a stern on a stern conversion intercept.
It bettered the F-15s, F-16s, F-14s, Mirages, F-104s- piloted by ace Mike Hale.
Better climb rate than even modern aircaft.
British ingenuity.
Walk with pride lads.
turdtrousers 3 years ago 5
people go on about how good the eurofighter is
but it its not much better than the lightning!
roooksy1 3 years ago
Absolutely stunning aircraft!
squidword64 3 years ago
No-one knows haw fast the Lightning was. I used to work with an ex RAF Fighter controller. He told me they took one to altitude, refuelled in mid air, headed for base and opened up fully. Got to Mach 2.65 in a diving approach, and landed on fumes. Lightnings go fuel critical as soon as they start up.
foxstrangler 3 years ago
Disgrace that these aren't allowed to fly any more. One of the greatest bits of aircraft history ever, grounded. Just like Concorde. Seeing the Vulcan return to the air recently was wonderful though
vipernoj 3 years ago 2
It's silly that something as complex as the Vulcan can still get the go ahead to fly around the UK's airspace - and god bless that! - but why not the Lightning? Not even for the RAF's birthday, that's shameful.
Can anybody shed light to why it can't be flown again in UK airspace? In a nutshell?
juzzi07 3 years ago
in a word...cost
clsteele 3 years ago
No...i'm sure a lottery fund much like XH558's would be set-up...and Brunty's taxiable aircrafts would definitely be able to 'hop'.
I don't think cost...albeit a small contributing factor...is the issue. There's more to it...i heard complexities in maintennace and noise were determining factors.
Cost doesn't worry Mike Beachy Head (Thunder & Lightnings) as he fly's four...plus a few hunters & buccaneers...
It's the government.
juzzi07 3 years ago
The authorities in the UK have no pride and should be ashamed of themselves.
r1wantone 3 years ago 8
fantastic video its such a shame that such a british icon is not allowed to fly in the u.k its digusting if only they could allow one to fly at iat this year for the R A F s birthday NO CHANCE
nigehass 3 years ago
Just think if they would have built the Lightning 2,& gone ahead with TRS 2, not forgetting the Buccanear 2 project, the RAF would have been a world Leader, but the labour Gov in the 60s screwed that up by cut backs & buying American Rubbish.
MadYorkie 3 years ago
Great video great aircraft.
furby8454 3 years ago
Not many people know the fact that the Indian Air Force could have been the first foreign customer.However they rejected it and went for the MiG21 instead on account of high cost and lack of a gun in early examples.
gillyh2745 4 years ago
I heard the commentator say that you can not see this in England because of the crowded air space. That cant be true can it?
CelticSaxon 4 years ago
pay my respects 4 posting-am a66yr old painter and sculptor-the lightning and tsr2 are the essence of british originality in concept and design-stealth and wealth,usa are an excuse at being top-gun tiny tom cruise heroes in their tomcat tincans!
terencehooper 4 years ago
such a good sight to see such a classic being where it should be,in the air,unlike the country where it was designed who's authorities won't let it fly,such a shame,thank's for the vid'.
stretchmark8 4 years ago
damn, it's a pity they didn't want to break the sound barrier, lol they said they didn't feel like sorting out all the law suit they would get if they did, and all the window repairs lol.
kinsley2108 4 years ago
Also,this jet took a lot of luster off of the the F-104 Starfighter. Outclimbed it easily, and was faster. At 50,000 ft/min. it's pretty awesome even by today's standards. The acceleration and performance in its time were nothing short of spectacular! It even was able to intercept a U-2 at previously though safe altitudes, Flt Lt Mike Hale in 1984 at 88,000 ft!
Danda1999 4 years ago
Yup, and also unlike the F-104, the lightning wasnt a deathtrap that kept falling from the sky and killing pilots ;)
LanciaS4 4 years ago
Actually, yes, In German service, 292 of 916 Starfighters crashed, claiming the lives of 115 pilots. It was called Witwenmacher " Widowmaker" , or Erdnagel "ground nail." It also had many incidents outside of Germany.
Danda1999 4 years ago
In only Germany and Italy together over 400 planes were lost. It had an alarmingly poor rcord as far as safety.
Danda1999 4 years ago
are you sure your not talking about the F-104 starfighter, as far as I know Lightnings were never based in or operated by Germany or Italy??
LanciaS4 4 years ago
Yes the F-104 starfighter.
Danda1999 4 years ago
Sorry for any confusion, Starfighter was the name for F-104.
Danda1999 4 years ago
I was verifying and agreeing with your statement about the poor safety record of F-104.
Danda1999 4 years ago
My statements about aircraft lost were indeed in reference to the F-104. Thats why I stated that I would indeed prefer the "Lightning"...better performance, and safer.
Danda1999 4 years ago
Yes, I would much prefer the "Lightning" for that and other reasons.
Danda1999 4 years ago
This aircraft was the 1st capable of supercruise! So, chew on that all you Raptor fans who always brag about supercruise somehow being a Raptor exclusive!!! Seems those witty Brits beat you to it by oh, say roundabout 40 years...ouch!
Danda1999 4 years ago 4
Do you know what the ultimate "supercruiser" was? You'd be surprised - Concorde! Concorde cruised at Mach 2 on dry thrust only. Afterburning was only used for take-off & acceleration to transonic speed. That's why they used turbojets (Olympus) rather than turbofans.
Gruntol5 4 years ago
Yes, it was an impressive machine! I have read much about her. Another design ahead of its time.
Danda1999 4 years ago
correct :) i didnt realise the lightning also did it
tsr 2 concord and the lightning were just epic aircraft ( the only time the tsr went supersonic with only 1 afterburner lit it ran away from a lightning!!!!!!
eatthisvr6 2 years ago
Concorde nor Concord.
qwertdr 2 years ago
Brilliant. I was with the Saudi Airforce for 7 1/2 years in the 60's 70's. Never tire of seeing it fly, what a joy to be invoved with them for so long. Not the easiest of aircraft to service but then again not all that gives pleasure is easily obtained!!!
dodgerinleeds 4 years ago
I did hear a story of an excercise in the USA, possibly Red Flag. It's said that a Vulcan was flying at low level towards a target but that a USAF jet "killed" him before he could get there. As the Vulcan peeled away there were 2 Lightnings beneath him and they took the target out! Probably an urban myth but I'd love to find out that it's true! Anyone?
dModer101 4 years ago
one red flag story is that in the 82 excerise, the usaf had no answers at all against the buccaneer.Thought the RAF were just dangerous flying that low.Well all i can say is all thar training in canada payed off.
tannoy2004 4 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
They were Buccaneers, not Lightnings.
amaclach 3 years ago
Should have gone to specsavers!!
wombat310 3 years ago 3
your not worth the bother
slipersox 3 years ago
Lightnings you dumbass...not Buccaneers...
samuraikensai 3 years ago
Fantastic aeroplane, it's such a shame that it's no longer flying in England. I recall being at Mildenhall in the late '80s, a single seater and a 2 seater were on static display. At the end of the show we joined the MASSIVE queue to leave and they took off in formation, did a low level right hand circuit and came screaming down the centreline. Both went vertical with vapour clouds around them, utterly breathtaking! That's the last I ever saw of the lightning in the air :o(
dModer101 4 years ago 2
Crumbs chaps.... it even LOOKS British!
How did it draw enough air through that small-ish looking intake, to feed two Avons?
SteffanLlwyd 4 years ago
them planes have two engines mounted over eachother
glynhoyland 4 years ago
Another story that did the rounds some time back was that of an RAF Lightning "intercepting" and overtaking Concorde as it cruised at Mach 2.05 at 65,000 ft. Impressive, if true!
Gruntol5 4 years ago
Not true max altitude is 60,000 ft
2oo6Whit2oo6 4 years ago
Thats not true either, Brian Carroll a Cheif Lightning Pilot took a Lightning to 87,300ft and another lghtning F3 went to 88,000 to mock intercept a U2
hawchcf1 4 years ago 2
Nevertheless, its fairly well known that, somewhere over Scotland, two lightnings intercepted a U2 at 80,000 by diving on it. It happened during a NATO exercise or similar.
Erictheirritated 4 years ago
When the TSR2 was being tested the lightnings were used as chase planes. It climbed on one engine with reheat and left the lightnings behind. Unfortunately, another Labour government were in charge at the time and scrapped the whole thing. Shame. Now I wonder why we are no longer world leaders in aviation?
utopiaboy 4 years ago 2
This is true.
Our works director bought the aircraft and it is on display beside our works carpark!.
The same lightning was up at 88,000 feet
Regards
Graham
hammy1010 4 years ago
My favourite aeroplane too, I used to nag my dad to take me to Handon museum to ogle it. Drove him mad. Brilliant aircraft & the engine sound in flight is truly music to my ears. Cheers for posting this. Made me very nostalgic
trousercough 4 years ago
Thanks for posting this vid. I grew up near Wattisham so Lightinings filled my childhood. Now at 40 I just went solo on my PPL.. this vid had decided it, I MUST GO TO THUNDERCITY AND FLY IN A LIGHTNING!
Goetmhmiac 4 years ago
i ment reach
dotheworldafavour 4 years ago
that plane can reack 1500mph and its my faverite plane
dotheworldafavour 4 years ago
this baby could go into orbit-awesome!
terencehooper 4 years ago
tis said a lightning intercepted a u2 spy plane from above 80 thousand ft- anyone conrirm this?
terencehooper 4 years ago
It's often mentioned a lot, particularly by those in the RAF from those times so I suppose it must be true.
steeluk4 4 years ago
Dont believe anything written about this planes performance in books or anything. This plane is simply awesome as much as it was fairly secret.
In 1984, during a major NATO exercise, Flt Lt Mike Hale intercepted an American U-2 at a height which they had previously considered safe from interception. Records show that Hale climbed to 88,000 ft (26,800 m) in his F3 Lightning.
flipsuperstar 4 years ago
I was lucky enough to fly T5 XS451 (the silver 2 seater)in April 2006, with Thunder City in Cape Town. a REAL LIFE CHANGING EXPERIENCE!! The team at Thunder City do an awesome job in keeping these beautiful machines going. I have loved the Lightning since watching them over the gate at Binbrook since aged 5. I served in the RAF as an airframe engineer just to late to work on Lightnings, having to sort out Harriers instead...booo hooo!!
PIEBOBGOORGPANTZ 4 years ago
The first time I ever saw one close up was at Bentwaters air show. It rolled down the runway and lifted a few feet off, retracted its gear, picking up speed all the time, then as it passed the grandstand, the pilot rotated into a vertical climb. The sound was incredible. That day I decided to join the RAF!
batman4453 4 years ago
Absolutly 100% awsome. My Father was a pilot and displayed the Lightning so i have been bought up with the the plane. Dont you find it so so sad that the younger generation will never have the pleasure of seeing hearing and feeling this wonderful aircraft? i know i do. well done, the video bought back alot of lovely memories. Steve.
2714740 4 years ago
Thanks for the videom I served witht he Royal Air Force at Binbrook Lincolnshire, I was lucky enough to get a flight in a T-Bird (2 seater) and took part in low level combat intercept with another Lightning. John.
johnklockyer 4 years ago
AWESOME!!! Thanks for sharing.
Dyynamo 4 years ago