PLANNING FOR SUCCESS
The objective is to build a full scale reproduction of the Supermarine S5 under the supervision of the Light Aircraft Association (LAA) rules.
Timing
S5 Specification Statement
A core goal for the Supermarine Seaplane project is to recreate the experience of seeing the iconic S5 racing seaplane in the air. The construction of a flying version brings particular challenges with it, and these require some deviation from the original design, especially given that aircraft pushed the limits of the knowledge and technology of its day. During the late 1920's no manned vehicle travelled faster than the Schneider Trophy aircraft and they needed the top pilots and engineers in the world to master them. Even with access to the best people, equipment and facilities operation of the aircraft was difficult and fraught with danger so an S5 built to be flown today needs to address these issues. Although a static aircraft could be built as an exact facsimile of those built by Supermarine, without taking to the air it would only ever tell part of the story and would lose a crucial aspect of what makes it so exciting.
The S5 currently in build by Supermarine Seaplane will, externally, be virtually indistinguishable from the aircraft that won the Schneider Trophy in 1927. The only visible concession is a slight re-profiling of the engine cowlings to accommodate the Continental engine. An engine chosen to allow ease of operation, have a minimum overall visual impact and to create an approximation of the original exhaust sound. Further modifications, hidden under the skin relate to structural materials and the use of a constant speed propeller improving serviceability, reducing cost and enhancing the handling for display.
With no S5s (or even parts of S5s) known to exist today and very few Schneider Trophy aircraft of any type surviving, it is felt that this flying example is the best way to evoke a golden age of aviation when Britain triumphed in competition against the best in the world. This aircraft will allow spectators to step back in time and share in the most authentic experience of what it was like to watch these racers in action a hundred years ago, bringing this important period of history to life again.
Costs
The costs above include materials, parts, labour and contingency and are best estimates at the time of writing.
Current Sponsors
ENGAGING BRAND PARTNERSHIPS
The project provides a company with exciting unique branding and marketing opportunities especially for those that want to celebrate and promote the brilliance of British engineering past, present and future. As this is a new project the major advantage is that all options still remain open to meet your specific requirements.
Some of the many options could include:
TAG Aviation
Operating, maintaining and managing private and business jets for aircraft owners since 1966, we understand what is important to you.
For 60 years, we have gone above and beyond to deliver an unparalleled business aviation service in the sky and on the ground. As a leading private jet company every detail is handled with Swiss precision so you can travel safely and efficiently. We attend to every need with a highly personal touch. We’re honest and open in everything we do.
Bruntons Aero Products
Bruntons Aero Products is a specialised manufacturer of machined components and mechanical cable assemblies. We supply direct to all levels of the Aerospace supply chain, servicing our customers prototype, serial production and spares requirements.
Our success in the stringent Aerospace sectors has been built on over a century of experience, where the most exacting production quality standards attainable are imposed. Delivery on time and ‘right first time’ for our customers is a must. Bruntons also support the Vintage Aircraft and Motorsport sectors, supplying Streamline Wires & machined components.
Sky Blue Aero Services
A UK CAA/EASA Approved Training Organisation (GBR.ATO.0280). Since 2003 we have provided training services to both self sponsoring pilots and airlines
Our primary focus has always been on the ATR42/72 series aircraft. However more recently we have been able to use our considerable experience of turbo-prop operations to provide similar high levels of customer service to operators of the Dornier 228.
Our high quality training courses are delivered by an experienced team of Instructors and Examiners. The company also has access to highly experienced current and former airline and military personnel who are able to provide a comprehensive range of consultancy services to organisations starting-up or re-equipping with either aircraft type.
RAF Air Force Historical Society
We are very pleased to announce that the Royal Air Force Historical Society have recognised our cause, and provided us with a donation to be used towards construction costs.
Founded in 1986, the RAF Historical Society is a charity dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of our community. Working together to further the understanding of the role and history of the Royal Air Force through publications and seminars. In addition, the Society provides educational and charitable grants.