Manx Airlines celebrates a new exhibit which is now available at the Manx Aviation and Military Museum. The aircraft, G-MAUD, is a turboprop that has been restored and repainted in its original colors. Giving guests the experience of travelling with the carrier.
About Manx Airlines
Manx Airlines was an Isle of Man-based airline operating between 1982 and 2002. Initially, the airline was established in 1947 as Manx Air Charters, but was later renamed in 1953. The new Manx Airlines in 1982 was a joint venture founded by British Midland Airways and AirUK. British Midland Airways owned 75% of the company and AirUK 25%. Some of the airline’s fleet of aircraft was from its parent airline but later consisted of several aircraft.
In 1987, Airlines of Britain Holdings became a holding company for British Midland Airways and its subsidiaries. The group owned 100% of British Midland, meaning they also owned 75% of Manx Airlines. Later in June 1988, Airlines of Britain Holdings acquired Airuk’s 25% of Manx Airlines, fully acquiring Manx Airlines. Manx Airlines ceased operations on 31 August 2002. The last flight was initially planned to be flown by a BAe 146 G-MIMA from Gatwick, London, to Ronaldsway, Isle of Man Airport. However, a JE 818 was brought in to operate the service due to technical issues. The last flight was flown by Captain Paul Quine, commencing from Birmingham International to Ronaldsway.
Exhibit at Manx Aviation and Military Museum
Established in November 2000, Manx Aviation and Military Museum is a museum dedicated to the history of aviation and the military on the Isle of Man. The museum is operated by volunteers and features nine thousand exhibits.
G-MAUD is now on display at the Manx Aviation and Military Museum. It became part of Manx Airlines’ fleet in 1980. The aircraft, which had been stripped for spare parts and was about to be scrapped, was acquired for less than a pound on the condition that it would never fly again. It has been restored and repainted in its original colors to give guests the experience of flying with the carrier. A former Manx Airlines staff member voted for the G-MAUD to be chosen for the exhibit. Entry to the museum is free and located on the Castletown part of the Airport.
Would you pay a visit to the Manx Aviation museum? We’d love to hear of your experiences if you’ve been along!
