VIP Voyager makes patriotic debut in new colour scheme

The subject of considerable media attention, Royal Air Force Voyager KC.Mk 3 ZZ336 has returned to its RAF Brize Norton home base from Marshall Aerospace and Defence Group at Cambridge, where it received its new colour scheme, on 25 June.

Known as Vespina after Operation Vespina, under which those entitled to use the aircraft are carried, but variously dubbed by the popular press, the aircraft is colloquially referred to as the ‘VIP Voyager’.

The newly painted Voyager refuelling 617 Sqn ‘Dambusters’ F-35 Lightings during Exercise Crimson Ocean, on 26 June | Photo: Cpl Alex Scott/© UK MoD Crown Copyright 2020

A Ministry of Defence press release explained: “The smart new paint scheme will promote the UK around the world while transporting Ministers, senior members of the Royal Family and their delegations on trade, diplomatic and other missions.”

Internally, the aircraft’s cabin has been modified with a meeting area forward, a section of fold-flat seating, in the style of typical airline business class accommodation moving aft, and standard, albeit comfortable Voyager seating at the rear.

The jet retains its three-point air-to-air refuelling capability, evidenced by the refuelling pods installed underwing, and may also be tasked with regular personnel transport if required.

A life-long, profoundly passionate aviation enthusiast, Paul E. Eden began writing about aircraft in 1996 and became a freelance aerospace writer and editor in 2003. He says his addiction began with a Matchbox Spitfire model kit and the Ladybird Book of Aircraft, around 1975. Since then, he has written for the Official RAF Annual Review and Salute publications, and currently edits and writes Executive and VIP Aviation International magazine. A regular contributor to a number of specialist publications, including Aerospace, the journal of the Royal Aeronautical Society, and airline, cargo and flight test magazines, he also blogs for Runway Girl Network.

His first book for Bloomsbury, The Official Illustrated History of RAF Search and Rescue, was published on 25th June 2020.

Blog: https://pauleeden.wordpress.com
http://uk.linkedin.com/pub/paul-e-eden/15/9a5/671
Twitter: @TwoDrones

BlueSky Business Aviation News | 2nd July 2020 | Issue #564