RAAF to Withdraw Eight Aircraft from 100 Squadron
Article by Beau Ellis
Images by Caelan McDougall
The Royal Australian Air Force has confirmed it will withdraw eight heritage aircraft from flying service with No. 100 Squadron following a comprehensive review of technical, safety and airworthiness requirements. The decision aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of the Air Force’s heritage flying program while maintaining safe and meaningful public engagement.
Operating ageing warbirds has become increasingly complex, with rising maintenance demands and the need for specialist skills and parts. By consolidating the fleet, 100 Squadron will be able to focus its resources on a smaller number of historic aircraft, improving sustainability while preserving a high standard of safety, reliability, and presentation.
Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Stephen Chappell, acknowledged the significance of the decision and the strong connection between the heritage fleet, the Air Force, and the Australian public. He emphasised that transferring retired aircraft to museums and heritage organisations ensures their history remains accessible, even if they no longer fly.
The aircraft being withdrawn from flying operations include the DH-115 Vampire T.35, Gloster Meteor F.8, Cessna A-37B Dragonfly, Ryan STM-S2, English Electric Canberra, CA-27 Sabre, CT-4A Airtrainer, and RE8 replica.
Five of these aircraft will be returned to the Temora Aviation Museum, with the remaining aircraft to be considered for static display at other approved institutions.
A total of eleven heritage aircraft will continue flying under 100 Squadron, including iconic types such as the Mustang, Spitfire, Boomerang, Wirraway and Hudson. The RAAF has stated that heritage flying operations will continue to be reviewed over the next 12 months to ensure ongoing safety, sustainability and value to the community.
While some aircraft will no longer take to the skies, the RAAF’s commitment to preserving, honouring and sharing Australia’s aviation heritage remains unchanged.
