Future Of Air Shows

[casper]

The discussion elsewhere on the financial state of the Vulcan project got me thinking about the future of air shows. It probably won't affect us but in 30,40 or 50 years will there be any historical aircraft doing the airshow circuit? Historical aircraft in the future will be things like Jaguar, F-4, Tomcat, Eagle, Eurofighter, C-130. Will it be economically viable for any of these to be preserved in flying condition in the future?

[vortex003]

If there are still a few groups of people as enthusiastic about keeping certain types airworthy (the guys in South Africa with their Lightnings and Hunters being an example),then i don't see why the odd airframe couldn't survive for display.

The CAA regulations will probably prevent them from appearing in the UK though 

[casper]

i don't see why the odd airframe couldn't survive for display

But because of the costs of keeping them in flying condition they will remain 'the odd airframe'. Compare that to the number of WWII planes flying at the minute - Spitfires, Hurricanes, Lancs, Hellcats, Wildcats etc.

[vortex003]

Will it be economically viable for any of these to be preserved in flying condition in the future?

I didn't say that a large number could/would survive.

There are only a few F86 Sabres or Mig 17s in private hands too.

It's obviously costly - but not impossible.

[Angry Turnip]

Actually there are quite a few F-86 in private hands and as per normal most are in the USA.They also have a very healthy warbird collection over there.

The thing that makes me mad is to see the former WW II types converted into abominations that take part in the Reno Air Races and a like

Prop aircraft are always going to be easier to preserve and operate than the more complex jet types,so it is more likely that current jets will end up firmly on the ground in muesums.

Multi Engine Jet types are just too complex to operate,fast taxi condition like the Vulcan,Victor,and Buccaneer at Brutingthorpe are probably the best we can hope for.
However the CAA have cleared a Buccaneer for flight in the UK-it is based with a large Hawker Hunter Group that operate several Hunters for combat simulations to various air arms worldwide.

[iCardboardRobot]

i would give so much to see a jag again

[Angry Turnip]

I have an old XJ6-wanna see? Only £50 a peek