Yakovlev YAK-50
The Yakovlev Yak-50 is a Soviet single-seat aerobatic aircraft that first took to the skies in 1975. Designed by the Yakovlev Design Bureau, the Yak-50 was built primarily for aerobatic competition and training, reflecting the USSR's strong emphasis on showcasing aerial prowess during the Cold War era. Its construction features an all-metal, low-wing monoplane design, powered by a 360-horsepower radial engine, enabling it to execute intricate aerobatic maneuvers with precision. This is how it became very popular at aerobatics competitions and airshows.
Discover this aircraft, that remains popular with collectors and is actually based at the Sanicole airfield, in the static park.
De Havilland Canada DHC-1 Chipmunk
The de Havilland Canada DHC-1 Chipmunk is a two-seat, single-engine primary trainer aircraft that first flew in 1946. Designed as a replacement for the venerable de Havilland Tiger Moth biplane, the Chipmunk became renowned for its excellent handling characteristics and robust construction.
The Chipmunk served extensively with the Royal Canadian Air Force, the Royal Air Force, and numerous other air forces around the world. Its reliability and ease of maintenance ensured its popularity, with over 1000 built. Now retired from military service, the Chipmunk found a second life in civilian aviation.
The example in the static park is actually based at the Sanicole airfield, cherished by its owner.
Photos: Peter Steehouwer, Paul Johnson (Flightline UK), Henk Tito, Andrew Timmerman, Eric Coeckelberghs (aviation-photocrew.com), Robin Mues, Belgian Air Force PR, Jörgen Nilsson (jn-photo.se)
