de Havilland DH.88 Comet Project

Welcome to the project page for the de Havilland DH.88 Comet.

We are pleased to announce that we have reached an agreement in principle with our insurers that will allow the detailed assessment and repair of the DH.88 Comet Racer, G-ACSS, to begin.

The Shuttleworth Trust is committed to maintaining the long-term future of this unique and historic aircraft in flying condition. While insurance funding will cover the essential works necessary to return the Comet to the air, there are additional steps we want to take to preserve the long-term operability of this very special aircraft. We are also mindful of the upcoming 100th Anniversary of the Mildenhall to Australia air race of 1934 – an event won by G-ACSS.

We are therefore launching a dedicated fundraising appeal to support acceleration of the repair works, together with an additional programme of related restoration and preservation work. This will include the overhaul to zero-time standard of the aircraft's engines, propellers, and accessories, together with the inspection, refurbishment and preservation of components that have not been damaged. Where new parts are required, we will seek wherever possible to manufacture additional spares at the same time, helping to safeguard the future operation of the aircraft for decades to come.

Funds raised will also help meet costs not covered by insurance, including the policy excess and other essential expenses associated with restoring the aircraft to the highest possible standard.

Our aim is to raise £250,000 over the next 18 months to ensure that G-ACSS not only flies again but emerges from this restoration with a more extensive spares holding to support its long-term operation for future generations to experience and enjoy.

With your support, we will not only return this iconic aircraft to full flying condition, but we will also ensure that it is ready in good time for the 100th Anniversary of the race in which it made history in 1934.