Royal Australian Air Force Retires Eight Heritage Aircraft

The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) announced on January 15 that it will withdraw eight aircraft from No. 100 Squadron’s heritage fleet following “a comprehensive review of technical and airworthiness factors.” Although certain piston types will be maintained in an airworthy condition, others—including three vintage jets—will be “transitioned with dignity” to other institutions.

In a move that could permanently ground the last airworthy Gloster Meteor in the world, five aircraft originally transferred from Temora Aviation Museum will return there, including the Vampire T.35, Meteor F.8, and Canberra early jets. Another three aircraft will be considered for static display elsewhere. No. 100 Squadron will continue to operate a variety of types, including the Harvard, Mustang, and two Spitfires.

“As aircraft age, upkeep becomes especially complex, especially for flying displays,” the RAAF said, adding that the reduction from 19 to 11 aircraft was “essential to balancing heritage preservation with operational safety.”

The heritage squadron was formed for the RAAF’s centenary in 2021 and entered into a partnership with Temora Aviation Museum to operate various airworthy types. The museum noted that the new rationale “is a significant change to the agreement that we entered into,” but nevertheless “[understands] the rationale.” As of press time, the museum has not responded to AIN's request for comment on its plans for the jets, which are notably absent from the organization's published list of aircraft it intends to maintain in airworthy condition.