Has the world’s last flying Vulcan made its final flight?

Only the further generosity of aircraft enthusiasts or major private or corporate sponsorship can now save the brave ‘Vulcan to the Sky’ project from 11th hour failure.

In 2007 Vulcan XH558 triumphantly took to the skies for the first time in 15 years, following a uniquely complex £7 million restoration. Last year she was the unquestionable star of airshows throughout the UK, wowing over 1.5 million delighted spectators with her unrivalled grace and pace.

With sufficient funds to complete a full display programme in 2009, the project could finally attain a secure financial footing, ensuring the delight of millions more enthusiasts for years to come. Without the £1 million now very urgently needed to kickstart that programme, those who so generously helped pay for the restoration and the team that worked tirelessly to achieve it will be denied their just reward.

How the urgently needed funds can be pledged
The pledges can be made by logging onto vulcantothesky.com or calling 0116 2478145. Even the smallest monthly commitment would be of significant help at this crucial time – eg if just 15,000 people were to pledge just £4 per month for a year (with Gift Aid), the target would be met. (NB the pledges will only be called upon when the team is confident the full target will be met.)

So much more than just the queen of flying displays
XH558 should be saved for the joy of its flying displays alone, but there are other major justifications. Firstly, as one of Britain’s great feats of engineering technology it can serve to encourage today’s students to adopt careers in the aerospace industry - it is crying out for graduates. Secondly, the aircraft is the focus of an outreach educational programme that helps teach younger generations about the Cold War, in which the Avro Vulcans played such a central and successful role.

Immediate action is required if this great British icon is to continue honouring the past and inspiring the future. Aside of pledging donations, supporters are also encouraged to sign the related petition which can be found at petitions.number10.gov.uk/vulcan-XH558/