de Havilland DHC-1 Chipmunk

G-AOTF is a unique Chipmunk Mk23 single seater, currently the only one flying. Starting life as a standard Mk 22 it originally served the RAF as WB563, it was converted for crop spraying in the 1963, and to a glider Tug in the 1980's. Painted in its striking black-and-orange colour scheme it has acquired the sobriquet 'BumbleBee', although many pilots know it as 'Bumblemunk'. The aircraft is suitable for use as a Glider Tug or simply as a unique classic, turning heads wherever it goes as it did in main arena at this year's LAA Rally as well as being the star of the show at the Chipmunk 80th celebrations at Halfpenny Green in June. Described by its pilots as a delight to fly, TF is a media star in its own right and has over recent years featured in several magazines including Flypast, Pilot, Sailplane & Gliding and Light Aviation. An invitation to appear at the Freddie March Aero Concours at this years Goodwood Revival is a further example of its uniqueness and popularity. G-AOTF is operated on a LAA Permit to fly and at the last annual in Spring 2026 had all new aileron cables and pulleys, tail strut X rays completed (due again in 7 years) and extensive engine work as described below. U/C X rays are due in 2028 (RH side) and 2034 for the left side. The engine has had equivalent work to a full overhaul over the last two years. A bottom end overhaul was completed by Deltair in 2024 including a new fuel pump. In 2026 the Engine had further work which included 4 brand new complete cylinder assemblies, Hydraulic tappets, new spark plugs and HT leads, fresh 500hr inspections on both magnetos and a newly overhauled carburettor. At the same time, all 4 con rod bushings were replaced so the current Lycoming AD no longer applies.