Y2-K Spitfire Construction - Winter Update

In this picture you can see that the door hinges and locking handle, as well as the forward and aft door catch, have been installed.

  Getting the proper shape on the windscreen side panels was an interesting project that started with a piece of wood.
In this picture you can see the old U-frame as it sits in the jig and the U-frame as it is today being repaired.

It has been a while since we last updated progress on the restoration and there have been significant developments in the project. Before I bring you up to speed on what has been happening let me fill you in on the work that has been going on at the hangar.

Work has been continuing on the fuselage side panels and side entry door.

The windscreen has been fitted less the armored glass front panel. Getting the proper shape on the windscreen side panels was an interesting project that started with a piece of wood.

The jig for the engine bearers has been brought into the hangar and work has commenced on the tubular members and U-frame.

So work has been carrying on in the hangar while we wait to find out what the future of the project will be.

Now for an update on our future. The Y2K Spitfire Restoration Project is moving towards a new phase, necessitated by a diminished amount of funding and volunteer help. In order that the tremendous work that has been accomplished over the past eight years not be wasted, the Department Of National Defence (DND) and Vintage Wings of Canada (VWoC) are working together to establish a partnership that has the intention of restoring TE 294 to flying condition within the next three years. Contractual negotiations are still underway, but basically VWoC has offered to provide funding to finish the aircraft, and to provide a venue for its continued operation upon completion. The plan will see the construction, test-flying and certification procedures completed here in Comox and then Y2K will stay for a period displaying her colours to the citizens of the Comox Valley and BC. All the volunteers and donors to this great project will be acknowledged and honoured for their contributions.

Upon completion of this phase the Y2K Spitfire will be relocated to Gatineau, Quebec where it will become part of Vintage Wings of Canada's fleet of heritage aircraft. There it will continue to be part of a flight that honours the memories of Canadian service men and women who have given their lives for our freedom and to teach our young the history of aviation and service in Canada.

The Y2-K Spitfire Team

“The Y2-K Spitfire will Fly Again"