Historic aircraft is unveiled at Long Kesh

The historic Canberra PR9, registration number XH131, which was built by Shorts in 1959 and served with the RAF until 2006, was unveiled at an exhibition at the Ulster Aviation Collection at the old Long Kesh airfield.

Volunteers spent two years rebuilding the aircraft, the centrepiece of a wider project to inform the public about the strong local connections of the Canberra aircraft.

Among the special guests at the event were Shorts personnel who designed, built and tested the aircraft as well as those who flew and maintained the machines in service.

Other initiatives of the project, which was part-funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), include the publication of a book and a programme of outreach and educational activities.

Ernie Cromie, UAS Chairman said: “Our choice of the title ‘Canberra Connections’ for the project has proven very apt – we have been amazed at the number of local people with links to the aircraft and stories to tell.”

Head of HLF Northern Ireland, Paul Mullan, added: “This fantastic project has brought to life the local heritage of the Canberra PR9 which was designed and built locally for use across the world. We are delighted to help raise awareness of the aircraft and its local connections and we hope many people will enjoy seeing the Canberra here in Northern Ireland, which is one of only two in the UK on public display.”

Diane Poole, Stena Line’s Head of PR and Communications added: “We were delighted to be able to assist the Ulster Aviation Society with the transportation of the Canberra to Belfast. She represents a very important piece of the aviation history of Northern Ireland and we would like to commend the Society for the superb piece of restoration work they have carried out to preserve the Canberrra for the enjoyment of future generations.”