The only one in the world: Fly the Avro Anson Mk. I

The Avro Anson Mk. I is one of the rarest flying military aircraft of its era. During the Second World War, Ansons were used in large numbers by the Royal Air Force and played a particularly important role in crew training. Of the thousands of aircraft once built, only a few survive today, and a flying Anson Mk. I is an absolute rarity. Climb aboard MH120 and experience an original British military aircraft from the Second World War, powered by its twin Armstrong Siddeley Cheetah radial engines, in flight.

The distinctive sound of the two Armstrong Siddeley Cheetah radial engines, the historic cabin, and the unique design: in the Avro Anson Mk. I, you experience 1940s aviation in a particularly authentic way. Even the moment the two engines start makes it clear that a flight in MH120 is hardly comparable to a modern sightseeing flight. The combination of historic technology, classic cabin, and the unique flying experience of a twin-engine military aircraft from the Second World War era makes every flight in this extraordinary rarity a special aviation experience.

In the Avro Anson Mk. I, you'll experience what flying aboard a twin-engine military aircraft felt like more than eight decades ago. The historic cabin, the close proximity to the cockpit, and the sound of the two radial engines create an atmosphere virtually incomparable to that of a modern aircraft. As the landscape glides by below, you'll experience the movements and sounds of this historic aircraft up close. An authentic flying experience that brings to life the unique character of British military aviation from the 1940s to the present day.

From Podhořany airfield, discover the diverse landscape of East Bohemia from a truly unique perspective. From the historic cockpit of the Avro Anson, enjoy views of fields, forests, small villages, and the expansive countryside below. Accompanied by the characteristic sound of its two radial engines, experience the surroundings from an aircraft that graced European skies more than eight decades ago. An impressive backdrop for a flight in one of the rarest remaining flying aircraft of its era.

Experienced pilots, personalized service, and the team's passion for historic aircraft make your flight a truly special experience. From ground preparation to the actual scenic flight, you'll experience the Avro Anson Mk. I up close and gain direct insight into the world of historic aviation. The original cabin, the distinctive sound of the twin radial engines, and the exceptional rarity of the MH120 combine to create an authentic aviation experience that brings the flying of the 1940s to life and leaves a lasting impression.

Flights with the Avro Anson Mk.I take place by individual appointment and subject to suitable weather conditions. For the most pleasant flight experience, the operator recommends warmer days with temperatures of around 15°C or higher. The desired flight date is requested individually and subsequently confirmed. Should the desired date not be possible or should the weather conditions not permit safe flight operations, an alternative date will be arranged.

The scenic flight in the Avro Anson Mk.I departs from Podhořany airfield and takes you over the diverse landscape of the surrounding region. During the flight, you'll experience the scenery of East Bohemia from different vantage points within the historic aircraft. Depending on your seating position, you'll enjoy views from the cockpit, the distinctive glazed nose section, or the historic gun turret. The exact flight route depends on current weather conditions and the aircraft's capabilities.

You will first be greeted at Podhořany airfield by our experienced team and given an up-close look at the Avro Anson Mk.I. During a briefing, you will receive essential information about the aircraft, its history, the flight procedure, and the various crew positions on board. Afterwards, up to three passengers will take their seats and embark on a roughly 20-minute flight. During the flight, you can switch roles such as co-pilot, navigator, bomb aimer, radio operator, and gunner. This allows you to experience the Anson from different perspectives of this historic aircraft and gain a unique insight into the duties of a flight crew of that era. After landing, there will be time for photos, questions, and personal interaction with the team.

Please allow approximately 1 to 2 hours in addition to the actual flight time for the entire experience. This time includes the briefing, flight preparation, and ample time for photos, questions, and personal interaction with the team. You will also have the opportunity to get a close look at the Avro Anson Mk.I and discover other historic aircraft from RAF Czechoslovakia.

The Avro Anson Mk.I is a historic twin-engine military aircraft and is not designed for aerobatics. The focus is on the authentic flying experience aboard this globally unique classic, the characteristic sound of its two radial engines, and learning about the various historical crew positions. The experienced pilot adapts the flight to the prevailing weather conditions and the passengers' personal comfort.

Of course! Your companions are very welcome at Podhořany Airfield and can witness the preparations, takeoff, and landing of the Avro Anson Mk.I. During your flight, you will also have the opportunity to discover other historic aircraft of RAF Station Czechoslovakia up close and observe the activity at the airfield.

Of course, you are welcome to take photos and videos before, during, and after the flight. The various areas of the Avro Anson Mk.I offer exceptional perspectives of the historic aircraft, the landscape, and the flight experience on board. The distinctive glazed nose section, in particular, provides impressive opportunities for photography and videography. Please ensure that your recordings do not interfere with the safe operation of the flight, crew changes, or pilot rotations.

The flights are conducted by a highly experienced team of professional pilots, flight instructors, and pilots with extensive experience on historic aircraft. The team includes, among others, Andrej Cepko, a professional flight instructor and pilot with experience on historic aircraft, and Ivo Kardoš, a former JAS 39 Gripen pilot and display pilot of the Czech Air Force.

Richard Santus, founder of RAF Station Czechoslovakia, is also a professional pilot with many years of experience flying historic aircraft. All pilots employed are familiar with the specific requirements of operating historic aircraft such as the Avro Anson Mk.I and ensure a professionally executed and personalized flying experience.

The Avro Anson Mk.I MH120 was built in 1943 at the Avro factory in Yeadon, near Leeds, and is one of the most important British military aircraft from the Second World War still flying today. More than 11,000 Avro Ansons were produced in numerous different versions. The MH120 occupies a very special place among them. It is currently the only flying Avro Anson of the original Mk.I version in the world.

During the Second World War, Avro Anson aircraft were initially used for coastal reconnaissance and as light bombers, among other roles. The type later gained particular importance as a multi-engine training aircraft. Pilots and entire flight crews, including navigators, radio operators, and gunners, were trained on the Anson. Numerous Czechoslovakian airmen serving in the Royal Air Force during the Second World War also encountered this aircraft type as part of their training.

MH120 itself, upon completion, was handed over to the Royal Australian Air Force and arrived at No. 2 Aircraft Park in Bankstown in March 1944. Subsequently, it served at, among other places, No. 1 Air Observers School in Evans Head and the Advanced Flying and Refresher Unit in Deniliquin. Thus, this aircraft was also directly involved in the training of flight crews during the Second World War.

After the end of its military career, MH120 was sold in 1953 to Greenfield's Air Taxis in Australia for a mere 100 pounds. An unusually varied civilian career followed. Notable chapters included winning an air race at Moorabbin in 1971 and appearing in the television production "Half a World Away" about the famous 1934 MacRobertson Air Race. Later, the Anson spent twelve years as an exhibit at the Wangaratta Air World Museum.

Eventually, MH120 came into the possession of Bill and Robyn Reid. In a restoration project lasting approximately ten years, the aircraft was painstakingly returned to airworthy condition. The goal wasn't simply to get the Anson flying again; the interior was meticulously restored to the condition of a 1940s RAF aircraft, down to numerous details. The restoration was completed in 2012, and in the same year, readers of FlyPast Magazine voted it the most significant warbird restoration of the year.

Special historical features were also restored. These include the characteristic Armstrong Whitworth gun turret with a faithful replica of a Lewis Mk.II machine gun, as well as the restored bomb bays. At air shows in New Zealand, the Anson thus became a well-known and exceptional representative of British military aviation during the Second World War.

Today, MH120 is part of the collection of RAF Station Czechoslovakia in Podhořany. There, it is maintained in airworthy condition along with other historic aircraft and serves in particular as a reminder of the Czechoslovakian airmen who served in the Royal Air Force during the Second World War.

On your flight, you won't simply be taking a seat in a historic aircraft. You'll be flying in the world's only remaining flying Avro Anson Mk.I and experiencing various crew positions typical of this aircraft type during World War II. From the co-pilot's seat to the navigator's and bomb aimer's positions, and from radio operator to gunner, MH120 offers an exceptionally authentic glimpse into the world of multi-engine flight crews of the 1940s.

The Avro Anson is one of the most important British multi-role aircraft of its era. It was developed in the mid-1930s by the British manufacturer AV Roe and Company, better known as Avro. The Anson made its maiden flight in 1935. Originally conceived as a military development of a civilian airliner, it was initially used by the Royal Air Force primarily for coastal reconnaissance.

With the outbreak of World War II, the Avro Anson was given another task that would decisively shape its history. It evolved into one of the most important multi-engine training aircraft of the British and Allied air forces. Not only pilots were trained on it, but also navigators, radio operators, bombardiers, and gunners. As a result, the Anson played a crucial role in training complete flight crews for larger multi-engine aircraft.

The original Avro Anson Mk.I was equipped with two Armstrong Siddeley Cheetah radial engines. Its distinctive features include its twin engine nacelles, the generously glazed nose section, and the prominent gun turret on the upper fuselage. Inside, there were various workstations for the crew, including the pilot, navigator, radio operator, and gunner. This layout still provides a vivid impression of the complexity of teamwork within a multi-person flight crew during the 1930s and 1940s.

The Anson proved to be exceptionally versatile and durable. Besides training, it was used for reconnaissance, liaison, light transport, and numerous other tasks. In total, more than 11,000 aircraft were produced in various versions. This made the Avro Anson one of the most produced British aircraft types of its time. In addition to the Royal Air Force, it saw service with numerous other air forces and later with civilian operators.

A special connection exists with Czechoslovakian aviation history. Numerous Czechoslovakian airmen who served in the Royal Air Force after the occupation of their homeland in World War II came into contact with the Avro Anson during their training and service. Thus, this aircraft type is also part of the history of those Czechoslovakian pilots and crew members, whom RAF Station Czechoslovakia commemorates today.

Although thousands of Avro Anson aircraft were once built, airworthy examples are extremely rare today. The MH120, based in Podhořany, occupies a unique position worldwide. It is the only remaining flying Avro Anson of the original Mk.I version. With its twin radial engines, various historical crew positions, and largely authentic equipment, it brings to life an era of aviation that has otherwise been preserved almost exclusively in museums.

The Avro Anson Mk.I MH120 has an extraordinary history, taking it from Great Britain to Australia, later to New Zealand, and finally to the Czech Republic. The aircraft was built in 1943 at the Avro factory in Yeadon, near Leeds, and delivered to the Royal Australian Air Force during the Second World War. In March 1944, MH120 arrived at No. 2 Aircraft Park in Bankstown, thus beginning its military career in Australia.

During its service with the Royal Australian Air Force, MH120 was used at No. 1 Air Observers School in Evans Head and the Advanced Flying and Refresher Unit in Deniliquin, among other locations. There, it was used to train flight crews. The Avro Anson played a crucial role during World War II in training pilots, navigators, radio operators, bombardiers, and other crew members for multi-engine aircraft.

After the end of its military career, a new chapter began for MH120. In 1953, it was sold to Greenfield's Air Taxis for a mere 100 pounds and subsequently used for civilian purposes. Over the following decades, it changed hands several times and enjoyed an unusually diverse career. In 1971, the Anson won an air race at Moorabbin, and later it appeared in the television production "Half a World Away" about the famous 1934 MacRobertson Air Race. Following this, it spent twelve years as an exhibit at the Wangaratta Air World Museum.

Later, MH120 came into the possession of Bill and Robyn Reid. Over a period of approximately ten years, the aircraft was painstakingly restored to airworthy condition. Particular emphasis was placed not only on restoring its technical airworthiness but also on authentically recreating the historical appearance and equipment of a World War II Avro Anson.

The extensive restoration was completed in 2012. That same year, readers of FlyPast Magazine voted the project the most significant warbird restoration of the year. Characteristic features such as the Armstrong Whitworth gun turret with a faithful replica of a Lewis Mk.II machine gun, as well as the bomb bays, were also reinstated. In the following years, the Anson could once again be seen flying at various airshows in New Zealand.

Later, MH120 was taken over by RAF Station Czechoslovakia and found a new home at Podhořany Air Base. There, it is maintained in airworthy condition today, along with other historic aircraft. Its new home also has a special historical connection to the Avro Anson, as numerous Czechoslovakian pilots came into contact with this aircraft type during their service in the Royal Air Force.

Today, MH120 occupies a unique position worldwide. Of the more than 11,000 Avro Anson aircraft built, it is the only remaining flying example of the original Mk.I version. On your flight, you will be seated in the very aircraft that was used to train flight crews during the Second World War and, after decades of traveling the world, has been restored to an authentic, airworthy condition. An exceptionally rare opportunity to experience the history of an over 80-year-old military aircraft firsthand.

Avro is one of the most important names in British aviation history. Founded in 1910 by brothers Alliott Verdon Roe and Humphrey Verdon Roe, the company is considered one of the oldest British aircraft manufacturers. In the following decades, numerous training, touring, transport, and military aircraft were produced under the Avro name, some of which are among the most famous British aircraft designs of the 20th century.

Avro played a significant role in British aviation even during the First World War. The Avro 504, which first flew in 1913 and was built in large numbers during and after the war, was particularly successful. It was used, among other things, as a training aircraft and shaped the training of several generations of pilots. With it, Avro established itself early on as one of Great Britain's most important aircraft manufacturers.

In the 1930s, Avro developed a series of new aircraft for civil and military use. The Avro Anson, a military version, evolved from the Avro 652, a twin-engine airliner built for Imperial Airways. The prototype made its maiden flight in 1935. The Royal Air Force initially used the Anson primarily for coastal reconnaissance. However, during the Second World War, it became one of the most important training aircraft for multi-engine flight crews.

With over 11,000 units built, the Avro Anson became one of the manufacturer's most successful aircraft types. It was used to train pilots, navigators, radio operators, bombardiers, and gunners. The Anson was not only used by the Royal Air Force but also found its way into numerous other air forces and remained in service in various versions for many years after the Second World War.

Avro's most famous contribution to aviation history was arguably during the Second World War with the four-engine Avro Lancaster. This heavy bomber became one of the most important British aircraft of the war. After the war, further significant designs emerged, including the Avro York airliner and later the Avro Vulcan. The Vulcan was one of the most distinctive British jet aircraft of the Cold War and formed an important part of the British strategic bomber fleet.

In the 1960s, as part of the reorganization of the British aviation industry, Avro merged with Hawker Siddeley. The Avro name gradually disappeared as an independent aircraft manufacturer, but its influence on aviation history remained. Designs such as the Avro 504, Anson, Lancaster, and Vulcan still represent various significant eras in British aviation.

The Avro Anson Mk.I MH120 in Podhořany represents one of the earliest and most significant chapters in this history. As the world's only remaining flying Avro Anson of the original Mk.I version, it brings to life an Avro design that was once used in thousands of aircraft and played a vital role in training Allied aircrews during World War II.