Built by Shorts in Belfast, XM496 made its first flight on 24th August 1960.

On 17th September 1960 it arrived at Royal Air Force Lyneham where two days later it was taken on charge, being the penultimate Bristol Britannia military transport aircraft to enter service with the Royal Air Force. (Their first was delivered in June 1959).

On 14th October 1997 XM496 returned to the UK and landed at Kemble, now Cotswold Airport, and this was the last last flight by a Bristol Britannia anywhere in the world. It is the only survivor of the original twenty-three strong RAF Britannia fleet.

For the journey home the callsign was "REGULUS".

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We are open for groups and talks, by prior arrangement. Our audio/visual aids include a PA system and radio microphone, flat screen TV/DVD player (with DVDs available to buy), and a home cinema projector and screen.

XM496 is an unusual and intriguing venue for your next club or society meeting (as the Ford Anglia 105E Owners Club will confirm). And your tour or meeting can take advantage of the excellent AV8 restaurant, adjacent to the Control Tower. Meals can be booked in advance.

Finally, if you simply want to look inside the aircraft but can't make our standard opening days (first and third Sunday of each month, 12.00 - 16.00), just contact us. We'll do our best to accommodate you. Please phone Eric Healey on 07977 071940.

NEXT OPEN DAY Sunday 19th May 2013

between12.00 hours and 16.00 hours (12 noon to 4pm)

Entry via north side, follow signs to LRTT once you are on the airport.