And now for something.......

[TSR2]

The A340 is a stretched IL-86, im not a fan. I do like the IL-76 though and the 146, The VC10, Concorde... Two engines are a bit pony really

[Paul K]

Tonks is training for the RAF A.330 Tankers so is flying the line as a civvie to get some practice in on the type

Ah! Okay, now it makes sense. Thanks for that Garry.

Tonks, hope it all goes well. And if you need any advice about flying a plane with a joystick in front of a glass screen, you just come and talk to us okay ?

[ianhind]

Ooooooooooh, I dunno, there's something classic looking about the A340's 4 engines..

Indeed, and as I have said on her before, very reminiscent of a 707, particularly the 300 series - just scale it down. The Il-86 is just too fat to be classic.

And ZZ330 is still flying around with a Spanish Mode-S code using CASA xxx call signs so I guess it's not been handed over to the RAF yet?

Nice one Tonks - not a lot of airlines have VC-10s

[Tonks]

Thanks all,

It is a great experience flying civvie and seeing a whole different world. The chaps I flew with this week were utter professionals and a joy to fly with!

Paul, the best thing I have learnt so far about flying with a joy stick is that if the AC is doing what you want... don't touch a thing!!!

And HC, you are not wrong! The hours soon add up!!! It goes a very long way on half a tank of gas!

Tonks

[Paul K]

Must be a very interesting time all round, what with a completely new generation aircraft and flying in a civilian environment, albeit temporarily. More photos when you're able Tonks, please.

[jonesey2k]

You'll be able to work out who's the best passengers: civvies or squaddies?

[VEGAS]

Ironically, what with all this Airbus speak. I was walking around an Emirates A380 at EGCC yesterday. I literally inspected everywhere, whilst it was being prepared for departure to Dubai. I can honestly say I was very impressed. Thank you to all the crew!

[thehappyotter]

I was at the viewing park there a couple of weeks ago Eddie and watched one take off, was impressive from a distance too. Although nowhere near as impressive as the Concorde tour.

I thought when I got there if I'd be able to track you down but couldn't work out how!

[DaveB]

Did you check the bar Rob??

ATB
DaveB

[airboatr]

There's a bar in a 380? ... well I guess Eddie would know, he did say..

I literally inspected everywhere

How'd the "bottom of the glassware" inspection go Eddie.