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Schempp-Hirth Minimoa BGA338
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Schempp-Hirth Minimoa BGA338
Schempp-Hirth Minimoa BGA338 under repair With Slingsby Sailplanes at Kirbymoorside in 1943.After being impressed into the Royal Air Force BGA338 was flown briefly by the ATC at 123 Elelmentary Gliding School at Bray in 1943. An instructor hit a hedge while approaching to land on its second flight, and that was the end of its service career. After the war BGA 283 was acquired by the noted racing driver Prince Bira of Siam (PrinceBirabongse Bhanudej of Siam/Thailand). Date: circa 1943-1944
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Media ID 20028452
© The Peter Butt Aviation Collection / Mary Evans Picture Library
1943 Acquired After Airforce Approaching Bray Briefly Career Driver Flown Gliding Hedge Impressed Instructor Kirbymoorside Noted Repair Sailplanes Schempp Hirth Siam Slingsby With Bira
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This photograph captures the Schempp-Hirth Minimoa BGA338 undergoing repairs at Kirbymoorside in 1943. The Minimoa, a single-seat motorless glider, was once a part of the Royal Air Force's inventory, having been impressed into service at 123 Elementary Gliding School at Bray. During its brief tenure with the Air Training Corps, the glider met an unfortunate end when an instructor made contact with a hedge upon landing during its second flight, effectively ending its military career. Following the war, the Minimoa BGA338 found new life in the hands of a notable figure. Prince Birabongse Bhanudej of Siam, also known as Prince Bira, acquired the glider. Prince Bira was an accomplished racing driver, having competed in the 1950 Formula One World Championship. The image of the Schempp-Hirth Minimoa BGA338 being repaired at Kirbymoorside serves as a reminder of its intriguing history, which spanned from its service with the RAF to its ownership by a renowned racing driver. This photograph, dating back to circa 1943-1944, is a testament to the rich history of aviation and the diverse uses of gliders during that era. The presence of Slingsby Sailplanes in the background further emphasizes the significance of gliding in the United Kingdom during the mid-20th century.
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