¹⁄1

The New Old Schwalbe

Richard, Excellent photos! Where is this at? Hamilton? Is it year-round or an airshow? Collins Foundation has a two-seater and used to advertise a type-rating for $25,000. They no longer list the cost on their site yet writes Hmmmm, how can I legally get $25K fast!?

Yep it's at warplane heritage in Hamilton. I know it visited for the airshow, the volunteer I asked didn't know how long they were being left with it but I believe that it's still owned by the manufacturer. I suspect they leave it on display whenever and wherever if they don't have a set use for it. Likely to entice museums or individuals into a purchase. They are for sale as I understand it.

If I recall correctly, there were 5 airframes started in Texas and later moved to Seattle for completion. Some of these were spoken for before completion but at least 2 were on spec as the minimum number to get a 'production line' running was five. The first example rolled out several years back and had a noticeably short nose gear as this was a failing in the original design. The one pictured does not seem to have this issue but is missing the 'onions' in the jet nozzles. Again, an area of concern on the prototype as they occasionally would detach and block the exhaust. Vintage Wings Canada has a story up about a US Mosquito pilot and photos of the Yagen Mosquito with this 262 in the background. A nice little adversary study.

It was left at the CWHM due to mechanical issues - the generator I believe. It was a real treat to see if fly - especially with the Flugwerks 190 being there. Great airshow, yet again.