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".
To maintain the XM496 - Whispering Giant uses up vast amounts of time and money. Here at the XM496 Preservation Society we are always pleased to welcome new sponsors.
All sponsors will be credited on this web site.
If you think you can help us then please fill in the contact form and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
NEXT OPEN DAYS Saturday 15th & Sunday 16th June 2013
between12.00 hours and 16.00 hours (12 noon to 4pm)
Extra opening for the visit by Tony de Bruyn to Cotswold Airport to thank those who saved his life last year.
Entry via north side from A433, follow signs to LRTT and 'C' site once you are on the airport.