Mosquito RR299 in silver display livery, photographed landing at RAF airfield. Final operational scheme before its loss in 1996. Photo by Kenneth J A Brookes.
© copyright Kenneth J A Brookes
This evocative image captures de Havilland Mosquito RR299, civil registration G-ASKH, in its final silver display livery during landing at a British airfield. Photographed by Kenneth J A Brookes, the aircraft is shown in full postwar tribute markings, including RAF roundels and tail flashes, reflecting its role as the last airworthy Mosquito in the world.
Built in 1945 as a T Mk III trainer, RR299 was restored to flight in the 1970s and operated by British Aerospace for ceremonial and heritage displays. The silver scheme was adopted in its later years to honor RAF postwar trainers and to distinguish it from wartime camouflage variants. RR299 flew extensively across Europe, appearing at major airshows and commemorative events.
On 21 July 1996, RR299 was tragically lost during a display at Barton Aerodrome, marking the end of an era for the “Wooden Wonder.” This photograph preserves its final operational appearance, ideal for collectors, historians, and enthusiasts seeking authentic archival aviation imagery.
