Spitfire 'prototype' seaplane build needs our help
1 December 2022
The team creating a replica of the Supermarine S5 seaplane, winner of the Schneider Trophy in 1927 and forerunner of the Spitfire, has launched a Crowdfunder appeal to raise funds.
The objective is to build a full scale reproduction of the Supermarine S5 under Light Aircraft Association (LAA) rules.
The build is already well under way, having started in January 2022:
Wings built, metal fittings to be installed by end of January 2023
Ailerons complete
Aileron hinges and compression struts complete
Wing root joiners complete
Pitot system
Float build due to start on 1 February 2023.
Sponsors thus far include Skyblue Aero Services, Bruntons Aero Products and Soar Aero Engines.
Timeline for the replica is a little behind but is stated as:
Start build January 2022
Floats build starts September 2022
Fuselage build and assembly June 2023 (duration: 3 years)
Certification and test flying July 2026 (duration: 4 months)
The target is the 100th anniversary of the Schneider Trophy win in September 2027.
