Unusual IFR Arrival
OK, we don't see that every day. In fact, we don't see that EVER. First arrival of the day on the strips is a Speedbird from Gatwick!
Touchdown
Gently down, and at taxiing speed just beyond the midpoint in what looked like an effortless landing. Biggest machine I've ever seen at Cranfield, landing weight was 39,000kgs which is well below the maximum for the final trip from Gatwick.
Nose
Having spoken to F/O Neil Green a couple of times over the last week in preparation for this flight it was nice to see him complete the final flight of GDOCB to the place he himself had his first flight - at Cranfield with Bonus Aviation!
GDOCB B734 British Airways
Landed safely and slowing rapidly on 21 after her final flight from Gatwick, soon to become a training tool for the University.
Shut Down
Vehicles can now approach the 737 on the runway to tow her to E2, probably could have taxied just as easily but we needed to ensure that the aircraft was positioned correctly. No more flights for this bird.
Water Salute
The Cranfield RFFS perform a water cannon salute for the aircraft once positioned onto E2.
Dan
Like a kid in a candy store he was, bless him.
B737 cabin
All the seats and lockers will remain with the aircraft, even the APU is being left so the aircraft is fully functional on the ground. A good acquisition methinks!
CAT 3 Autoland
A 737 Classic cockpit - soooo many dials!!
Classic Cockpit
The 737-400 cockpit. Where are all the big screens?!
Royal Mail
Most BA aircraft carry the Royal Mail logo as they often carry cargo for the post office.
Chatham Tail
The BA Chatham Dockyard livery is one of my favourites, first time I've been this close to it!
Charlie Bravo
Nose wheels chocked, the aircraft will soon be rolled back onto metal plates to protect the taxiway as the aircraft is fully prepared for retirement.
CFM56
A look into the cowling of the port engine before it is removed and returned to Gatwick.
G-DOCB
Another look at the tail of the 737, skin repairs visible on this well used machine around the cargo door and aft passenger door. 23 years and one week after delivery from Boeing she has made her final flight.
Flight Crew
F/O Neil Green and Captain Marc Schavemaker pose by G-DOCB after her final flight to Cranfield.
Smiles
The crew pose and have a chuckle (probably at Dan who was trying to use their cameras!)
Capt Schavemaker and F/O Green
A final pose from the crew before they head back to Gatwick minus their aircraft.
Repairs
A few more patches on this machine visible near the nose - including one on the roof!
