Further progress on the restoration and rebuild of Spitfire X4009! Ross Pay, Chairman of Hunter Fighter Collection, visited Airframe Assemblies on the Isle of Wight UK to discuss the ongoing project with Steven Vizard.  Airframe Assemblies are dedicated to the restoration and repair of airframes for World War II warbirds mainly Spitfires and in particular the MkI.

Ross expressed his gratitude for the generous donations made by public donors, funds received from merchandise sales, and sales of the REC X4009 watches, which have been crucial in advancing the fuselage build.

During his visit, Ross took time to view the X4009 frame 5 and firewall, the major structural component around which X4009 is constructed. This vital piece is central to Stage 2 of the project and is essential for the fuselage restoration and rebuild. Several other major components, including the spar carry throughs, have also been constructed, and work continues on the frames.

Ross Pay HFC Chairman and Spitfire-X4009 frame 5 and firewall at Airframe Assemblies Isle of Wight UK

Once the fuselage is skinned, the structure of X4009 will be shipped to Scone, NSW, where Vintage Fighter Restorations will complete the work to get X4009 airworthy. This will be a significant milestone in the project, bringing us closer to seeing this historic aircraft back in the skies.

Followers of the project would know that Supermarine Spitfire X4009 was flown by Australia’s Battle of Britain fighter ace, Flight Lieutenant Paterson Clarence Hughes from Cooma, NSW. Pat’s paternal family was from Belford in the Hunter Valley, NSW making this restoration even more meaningful to the local community of Scone.

Every donation makes a big difference, no matter how small. The continued support of the community is invaluable and greatly appreciated.

Rear of Spitfire X4009-Frame 5 and firewall at Airframe Assemblies on the Isle of Wight UK

Donate to the Pat Hughes Spitfire X4009 Restoration

Stay updated and become part of the journey to get the Supermarine Spitfire X4009 flying again by following the Pat Hughes Spitfire Facebook page.

A Donation of $2 or more to Hunter Fighter Collection Incorporated is Tax Deductible in Australia.