English Electric Lightning F6 XS899 – RAF Binbrook, 18 April 1988

As low as £8.00
In stock
Only %1 left
SKU
8401

This archival photograph captures English Electric Lightning F6 XS899 at RAF Binbrook on 18 April 1988, taken by Stuart H Bourne. A classic Cold War jet, the Lightning F6 was famed for its blistering climb rate and Mach 2 performance, serving as Britain’s frontline interceptor.

Photo by Stuart H Bourne

© Stuart H Bourne / Quality Aviation Photos International.

This archival photograph captures English Electric Lightning F6 XS899 at RAF Binbrook on 18 April 1988, taken by Stuart H Bourne. A classic Cold War jet, the Lightning F6 was famed for its blistering climb rate and Mach 2 performance, serving as Britain’s frontline interceptor.

Aircraft History

  • Serial: XS899
  • First Flight: 8 June 1966
  • Squadron: No. 5 Squadron RAF
  • Base: RAF Binbrook, Lincolnshire

XS899 remained with No. 5 Squadron throughout its service life. After RAF Binbrook closed, the aircraft was sold to Arnold Glass and flown to Cranfield with hopes of civilian operation. That plan was abandoned, and the airframe was scrapped in 1994. However, the nose section was saved by Charles Ross and restored by W/O Mick Jennings at RAF Coltishall.

Current Status

The preserved nose section of XS899 is privately held by Charles Ross in Binbrook, Lincolnshire. It has appeared at aviation events, including the Caister Show in 2018, supporting Lightning preservation efforts.

Further Reading

Reviews

Write Your Own Review
You're reviewing:English Electric Lightning F6 XS899 – RAF Binbrook, 18 April 1988
Your Rating
Copyright © 2013-present Magento, Inc. All rights reserved.