DH9: From Ruin to Restoration: The Extraordinary Story of the Discovery in India and Return to Flight of a Rare WWI Bomber

In 2000, aircraft restorer Guy Black discovered two Airco DH9 bombers in a remote part of India, hidden away in a Maharajas elephant stable. He purchased them and returned them to England, where they were restored and re-constructed. The first DH9 was restored and is now housed as a non-flying exhibit at the IWM Duxford.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 23 September 2019
Publisher: Grub Street Publishing

In 2000, aircraft restorer Guy Black of Aero Vintage discovered the remnants of at least two Airco DH9 bombers in a secluded area of India, concealed within what had once been a Maharajas elephant stable at his palace in Bikaner, Rajasthan. These remarkable finds were truly extraordinary and represented the last surviving examples of a nearly extinct and significant WWI aircraft type, with none remaining in Britain.

Recognizing the immense value of these aircraft to the UK's aviation heritage, Guy embarked on a mission to secure their purchase and bring them back to England. The entire captivating journey, spanning from their discovery to recovery, research, restoration, reconstruction, and inaugural flight, is meticulously documented in fascinating detail. Furthermore, the book delves into the restoration of the very first DH9, which is now exhibited as a non-flying artifact at the IWM Duxford.

The DH9 bombers played a crucial role in the early stages of the war, providing a reliable and sturdy platform for reconnaissance and ground-attack missions. However, as the conflict progressed, they were gradually replaced by more advanced aircraft, rendering the DH9s obsolete. The discovery of these two intact bombers in India was a significant find, as it provided a rare opportunity to study and preserve these historic aircraft.

Guy Black's dedication to the restoration of these aircraft is evident in the meticulous attention to detail he applied during the process. The restoration team worked tirelessly to repair and rebuild the damaged structures, replacing missing parts and restoring the aircraft's original appearance. The result was a stunning testament to the skill and expertise of the restoration team.

The restoration of the first DH9 to be completed was a significant milestone in the history of aviation restoration. It marked the first time that a DH9 had been brought back to life after being in a state of disrepair for over 80 years. The aircraft is now housed as a non-flying exhibit at the IWM Duxford, where it continues to captivate visitors with its rich history and significance.

The story of the DH9 bombers and their restoration is a testament to the enduring power of human ingenuity and dedication. It reminds us of the importance of preserving our aviation heritage and the invaluable contributions that these aircraft made to the war effort. The restoration of the first DH9 is a shining example of how we can honor the past while looking towards the future.

In conclusion, the discovery and restoration of the Airco DH9 bombers in India by Guy Black of Aero Vintage is a remarkable tale of aviation history. These rare and important aircraft have been brought back to life, preserving their legacy for future generations. The meticulous attention to detail and dedication of the restoration team have resulted in a stunning testament to the skill and expertise of aviation restoration. The first DH9's restoration at the IWM Duxford is a significant milestone in the history of aviation restoration, and it serves as a reminder of the enduring power of human ingenuity and dedication.

Weight: 800g
Dimension: 246 x 178 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781908117335