Royal Australian Air Force Announces Changes to Heritage Fleet

18 Januari 2026

DH-115 Vampire T.35 (photo: RAAF)

The Royal Australian Air Force will withdraw eight heritage aircraft following a comprehensive review of technical and airworthiness factors to ensure 100 Squadron remains safe, sustainable, and connected to Air Force history.

Gloster Meteor F.8 (photo: RAAF)

Streamlining the fleet will allow 100 Squadron to maintain quality heritage displays, engage communities, and protect the long-term viability of Air Force’s heritage capability. 

Cessna A-37B Dragonfly (photo: RAAF)

Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Stephen Chappell DSC, CSC, OAM, said the review was essential to balancing heritage preservation with operational safety.

Ryan STM-S2 (photo: RAAF)

“Our heritage fleet holds deep significance to Air Force and the Australian public,” Air Marshal Chappell said. 

English Electric Canberra (photo: RAAF)

“While withdrawing aircraft is never easy, this step ensures we preserve aviation history responsibly. By transferring these aircraft to museums and heritage organisations, their stories of service and innovation will remain accessible for future generations.”

CT4A (photo: RAAF)

As aircraft age, upkeep becomes increasingly complex, especially for flying displays. Reducing the fleet will allow 100 Squadron to focus on operating a select group of historic aircraft for ceremonial duties and flying displays, maintaining a living connection to Air Force traditions.

RE8 (photo: RAAF)

The withdrawn aircraft – DH-115 Vampire T.35, Gloster Meteor F.8, Cessna A-37B Dragonfly, Ryan STM-S2, English Electric Canberra, CA-27 Sabre, CT4A, and RE8 – will be transitioned with dignity. Five aircraft originally transferred from Temora Aviation Museum will return there, while the remaining three will be considered for static display at approved institutions.

Air Force will continue to operate 11 heritage aircraft: the Mustang, Harvard, Winjeel, two Tiger Moths, Sopwith Pup, Hudson, Spitfire Mk8, Spitfire Mk16, Boomerang and Wirraway. 

Heritage operations will be reviewed over the next 12 months to ensure sustainability and continued public engagement.

(Aus DoD)