Query - Westland Whirlwind

[Irish251]

Many years ago (1980s?) it was reported that the Air Corps got an ex-Royal Navy Westland Whirlwind (serial XN309), I think for technical training.  Can anyone verify if this is true and if so, what became of the aircraft?

[futurepilot]

Theres no record of it in the Air Corps book so.......

[John K]

Short Finals, I remember back in the '70s RAF Whirlwinds doing exchange visits, then Wessex's, (22 Sqn?) there was an Allouette airframe acquired for the Apprentice school, but I don't remember a Whirlwind.

[GoneToTheCanner]

Hi there
I saw a stripped-out hulk of a Whirlwind once upon a time, but I think it was given either to George Harvey, when the Museum was at Waterford Airport or it went to the Rail Museum at Dromod.It was utterly derelict and had no moving parts of any kind and was battered.It may even have ended up as a fire training hulk in Waterford.
regards
GttC

[Fouga]

In flying in Ireland Mag this month it says the Aircorps cessna's were given to the AC by Iona is that true? I thought it was Reims who gave them to us?

[Tony Kearns]

Iona acted as agents for Cessna and the Reims FR 172 H and K.
Tony K

[Fouga]

Oh ok cuz the way the story is worded makes it sound slightly different.

[Tony Kearns]

The shell of ex Royal Navy Whirlwind XN209 was brought to Baldonnel by Alan House in exchange for Provost 181 which he required for parts to restore one of his Provosts. The full details of the history of XN209 was published some time ago in Irish Air Letter under my by line, can't remember the date (age thing you know!)
Tony K

[Irish251]

Tony

Confirm XN309?  I think XN209 was a Slingsby glider!

[Tony Kearns]

SF,
XN209 is the serial I have in my notes ,would appreciate confirmation of the correct serial.
Tony K

[Irish251]

Tony

From the excellent site

http://www.ukserials.com

WA289 XN309 Whirlwind HAR9 f/f 25/01/1960, d/d 04/02/1960, to A2663, pres. Casement, Ireland [clearly this last information has not been correct for a long time]

The site also shows that serial XN209 was in fact not allocated, being part of a "black-out block" of serials which was not used for security reasons.

[Irish251]

Here's a picture of the said Whirlwind at Lasham, 1982.

[John K]

Wouldn't it be ironic if the Whirlwind was exchanged 'cos Alan House wanted the engine out of a Provost!