A couple of the BPAG team attended Manston again on Monday, primarily to attend to other matters but were also able to put a couple of hours in on the airframe. The aim was to remove D101 L&R panels in order to inspect the hydraulic system, in order to plan withdrawal of the wing lock pins and subsequent removal of the outer wing sections.

Heavy corrosion of the panels unfortunately meant cutting into the wing instead. Opening the wing revealed the extent of the corrosion underneath. Leading edge flap actuator access panels and speedbrake lock and closure panels were also removed. Again, serious corrosion underneath. In conclusion, time well spent that has given us further insight into what we’re up against. More pics available on the ZE30 Restoration Gallery.