Step inside the cockpit of the world’s only airworthy Bristol Blenheim (Fairchild Bolingbroke) for a complete flight from pre-flight engine prep to shutdown.
Filmed in 1995 in original 4:3 standard definition with intro by the legendary Raymond Baxter, this archival documentary provides an authentic, step-by-step look at how to prep, start, taxi, fly, and land this unique WWII twin-engine radial bomber.
At the time of filming, this aircraft was operating in its Mk IV configuration before a landing accident and subsequent rebuild returned it to a Mk I profile. This film preserves the historic Mk IV long-nose setup in full operational detail.
Inside the flight:
- Bristol Mercury Engine Prep: Aircraft engineer John Smith walks through pre-flight inspections, ground running checks, and radial engine maintenance.
- Cockpit Systems & Startup: Veteran warbird pilot John Romain explains every instrument, trim control, throttle setting, and the full startup procedure.
- Flight Handling & Air-to-Air: Full in-cockpit commentary during takeoff, cruise, and approach, accompanied by period air-to-air footage.
- Landing & Shutdown: Approach speeds, landing technique, and post-flight radial cool-down.
Essential viewing for WWII aviation historians, warbird pilots, scale modellers, and Bristol Mercury enthusiasts looking for unfiltered vintage flight operations.
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 - Overview
01:18 - Bristol Mercury Engine Checks (John Smith)
07:48 - Walkround check and cockpit prep
10:50 - Radial Engine Start & Taxying
24:03 - Display and landing
#BristolBlenheim #Warbirds #VintageAviation #WWIIAircraft #FlightCockpit 
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