Avro Lancaster Bomber In Flight Editorial Image

The Lancaster bomber - PA474, acquired by the BBMF in 1973, is one of only two surviving airworthy examples of the type; the other is in Canada. She was built in mid-1945 and assigned to reconnaissance duties after appearing too late to take part in the bombing of Japan. After various duties, she was adopted by the Air Historical Branch for display work. She appeared in two films: Operation Crossbow and The Guns of Navarone. Having been flown for much of her service with the BBMF as the `City of Lincoln`, PA474 previously wore the markings of the `Phantom of the Ruhr`, a Lancaster that flew 121 sorties a so-called `ton-up` Lancaster. Originally assigned to 100 Squadron in June 1943, the original `Phantom` was transferred to 101 Squadron in November that year and finished the war as part of 550 Squadron at Ludford Magna.