Lancaster Bomber: The Story of 'Just Jane'

The Lincolnshire countryside, a landscape often marked by the silent remnants of wartime airfields and poignant memorials, is home to a place that serves as a vibrant, living tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of Bomber Command. Nestled amidst this historic terrain, at East Kirkby airfield, lies the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre, a testament to the enduring spirit of aviation and the individuals who shaped its most challenging eras. At the heart of this centre is the magnificent Avro Lancaster, NX611, affectionately known as 'Just Jane'. This article delves into the remarkable journey of 'Just Jane', from its conception to its current status as a beloved icon, and explores the human stories intertwined with its existence.

The Genesis of 'Just Jane'

'Just Jane' was born in April 1945 at the Austin Motors Longbridge works, as the third aircraft off the production line for the Lancaster B.VII variant. Destined for the RAF's 30 Squadron as part of the TIGER FORCE, its operational life was intended for the Far East against Japan. However, the swift surrender of Japan meant that these newly built Lancasters, including NX611, were consigned to storage at the RAF Maintenance Unit in Llandow, Glamorgan. The dream of service in the Pacific theatre was never realised for this particular aircraft.

A New Beginning: French Service and a Trans-Global Journey

In April 1952, NX611 embarked on a new chapter, sold to the French Government for approximately £50,000. As part of a Western Union agreement, it was converted by Avro at Woodford for Maritime Reconnaissance duties with the French Navy (L'Aeronavale). Painted midnight blue and coded WU15, modifications included the removal of the mid-upper turret, the addition of an airborne lifeboat, and the fitting of ASV radar. For the next decade, WU15 served various French naval squadrons from bases in Brittany and Morocco. In November 1962, WU15 was repainted white, preparing for service in New Caledonia, a French island in the South Pacific. The ferry flight was an epic undertaking, covering 13,000 miles. While the total flying time was around 60 hours, the journey itself spanned 23 days, including a crucial 50-hour inspection in Phnom-Penh.

During its time in New Caledonia, WU15, operated by Escadrille de Servitude 9S, carried out patrols, Air Sea Rescue, communications, and liaison duties across the South Pacific. Intriguingly, it also participated in bombing raids over Indo-China, a role not dissimilar to its original purpose.

The Return to the UK and the Birth of a Memorial

In the UK, the Historic Aircraft Preservation Society (HAPS) had expressed interest in acquiring a Lancaster for preservation. Following a lengthy silence from French authorities, they eventually contacted HAPS, not only offering a Lancaster but also its delivery to Australia or New Zealand. Arrangements were swiftly made, and in August 1964, WU15 touched down in Australia at Bankstown, near Sydney. A significant fundraising effort, supported by the RAF, RAAF, Hawker Siddeley Group, Shell Petroleum, and Qantas, along with donations from the public, enabled a thorough overhaul and a test flight. The aircraft was then prepared for its momentous flight back to the UK, registered as G-ASXX. On April 25th, 1965, G-ASXX departed Sydney for the 12,000-mile journey, arriving at Biggin Hill on May 13th, 1965, after 70 hours of flying time. The crew comprised serving or retired RAAF members, many with wartime Lancaster experience.

Upon its arrival, G-ASXX was grounded due to expired engine and propeller airworthiness hours. A meticulous restoration began. The white paint was stripped, revealing bare metal, and a classic RAF night bomber black and camouflage scheme was applied. The original RAF serial NX611 was reapplied, along with the code letters HA-P, representing the Historic Aircraft Preservation Society. Christened 'Guy Gibson', her first post-certification flight took place on May 6th, 1967. The subsequent flights were not without incident, highlighting the complexities of returning such a magnificent machine to the air.

The Panton Family's Quest and 'Just Jane' Finds a Home

The story of NX611 becomes deeply personal with the involvement of the Panton family. Christopher Panton, a Flight Engineer, was tragically lost in a Halifax III bomber, HX272, during the devastating Nuremberg Raid of March 30th/31st, 1944. This loss profoundly affected his younger brothers, Fred and Harold. Their enduring desire to commemorate their brother and all those lost in Bomber Command led them to the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre. In 1983, after a protracted journey involving negotiations with the RAF and Lord Lilford, NX611 finally became the property of Fred and Harold Panton. In July 1987, after a 13-week dismantling and re-assembly process by a team from RAF Abingdon, NX611 arrived at East Kirkby airfield, marking the true beginning of the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre.

'Just Jane' Comes to Life: The Restoration and Taxi Runs

In 1990, NX611 was surveyed and found to be in excellent condition. The name 'Just Jane' was applied, honouring a popular 1940s comic strip character, while the starboard side bears the title 'City of Sheffield', acknowledging the city's contribution to the Lancaster's production. The dedication of the engineering team, particularly Ian Hickling and Roy Jarmain, ex-RAF engineers, was instrumental in restoring the four Rolls Royce Merlin engines. The restoration of the number three engine began in January 1994, and its first public run was a momentous occasion, met with awe and appreciation from Bomber Command veterans.

The first public taxi run of 'Just Jane' took place on April 22nd, 1995, her 50th birthday. Pilot Mike Chatterton, son of a Lancaster pilot who flew on the Nuremberg raid, described the initial moment of release: "I can still clearly remember the look on Fred and Harold’s faces when I released the brakes and for the first time in more than twenty years NX611 rolled forward, about 30 feet, under her own power." The successful restoration of all four engines by July 1995 transformed 'Just Jane' from a static exhibit into a living memorial, a powerful link to the past for a new generation.

The 'Taxi Ride' Experience

A 'taxi ride' in 'Just Jane' is more than just a visual spectacle; it is a sensory immersion into the world of WWII aviation. As the four Merlin engines roar to life, the air vibrates with a glorious symphony of sound, accompanied by the distinctive aroma of aviation fuel and oil. The sheer scale of the aircraft, the cramped and challenging conditions faced by the wartime crew, and the palpable sense of history are overwhelming. Sitting in the pilot's seat, one can only imagine the courage and skill of those who flew these magnificent machines into the heart of danger.

Mike Chatterton, one of the privileged pilots who operates 'Just Jane' for taxi runs, describes the experience with passion. His pre-run briefing, his connection to the aircraft through his father's service, and his interactions with passengers, especially veterans, underscore the profound emotional significance of these events. The challenges of operating such a historic aircraft, including the recent 'Tail Up' runs on grass, highlight the dedication and expertise required.

A Look at East Kirkby Airfield and its Legacy

East Kirkby airfield itself has a rich history. Originally a decoy airfield, its construction as a heavy bomber station began in 1942. It served as a base for 57 and 630 Squadrons, flying Lancasters, and later hosted 460 Squadron RAAF. The airfield experienced its share of wartime incidents, including Luftwaffe raids and tragic accidents, underscoring the perilous nature of operations during the war. The restoration of the wartime control tower, now a listed building, and the comprehensive displays of wartime artefacts, further enhance the visitor experience.

Beyond 'Just Jane', the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre is home to other significant aircraft and exhibits, including the wings of a Wellington bomber, remains of a Spitfire, and a Canberra cockpit section. The presence of wartime vehicles adds to the authentic atmosphere, creating a truly immersive historical environment.

Will 'Just Jane' Fly Again?

The question of whether 'Just Jane' will fly again is frequently asked. While the Panton brothers have never ruled it out, the decision is a monumental one. The cost and rigorous testing required for re-certification are substantial. More importantly, a return to flight would fundamentally alter the nature of the museum. The intimate experience of being inside a ground-running Lancaster, the opportunity for passengers to experience taxi runs, and the unique educational value of its current state are highly cherished. The potential loss of these aspects, coupled with the prohibitive cost of passenger flights under current regulations, makes a return to flying a complex consideration. The current role of 'Just Jane' as a ground-based living memorial is, for many, a more valuable and accessible way to connect with the history of Bomber Command.

Key Figures and Statistics

The story of 'Just Jane' is inseparable from the individuals who have brought her back to life and those who flew her. The Panton brothers, Fred and Harold, represent the enduring spirit of commemoration. Pilots like Mike Chatterton, alongside engineers Ian Hickling and Roy Jarmain, are crucial to her continued operation. The operational statistics of the Lancaster bomber are staggering:

The Nuremberg Raid, a particularly devastating event, saw the loss of 95 bombers and 665 aircrew, with 64 Lancasters and 31 Halifaxes lost on that single night. These figures underscore the immense human cost of the war.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How long did it take to fly a Lancaster?

The duration of a Lancaster's flight varied greatly depending on the mission's length and the aircraft's specific role. For instance, the ferry flight of WU15 (NX611) from France to New Caledonia took 60 hours of flying time spread over 23 days. A typical bombing raid could last several hours, often involving long flights over enemy territory.

Q2: What was the range of a Lancaster bomber?

The range of a Lancaster bomber varied with its load and specific model, but generally, it could operate effectively at distances of around 1,500 to 2,000 miles. This was crucial for deep penetration raids into Germany.

Q3: What was the maximum speed of a Lancaster bomber?

The maximum speed of an Avro Lancaster was approximately 287 mph (462 km/h) at 14,000 feet.

Q4: How many crew members were typically on a Lancaster?

A standard Lancaster crew consisted of seven members: Pilot, Flight Engineer, Navigator, Bomb Aimer, Wireless Operator, Mid-Upper Gunner, and Rear Gunner.

Q5: What is the significance of 'Just Jane'?

'Just Jane' is significant as one of the few surviving Avro Lancaster bombers in the world. Her ongoing restoration and taxi runs at the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre provide a unique opportunity for the public to experience this iconic WWII aircraft, serving as a powerful memorial to Bomber Command. Her history, from wartime production to French naval service and back to the UK, is a remarkable story in itself.

The Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre and 'Just Jane' offer a profound connection to the past, honouring the sacrifices made and preserving the memory of a vital era in aviation history. It is a place where stories come alive, and the legacy of those who served continues to inspire.

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