DH-114 Heron Was Transport For Queen Elizabeth And Prince Phillip

The British DeHavilland DH-114 Heron which was once used as personal transport by Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip will be making a rare appearance at the Copperstate Fly-In next weekend.

DeHavilland Heron File Photo

This unique, historic aircraft will be on public display for the duration of the fly-in, October 21-23, in Casa Grande, AZ. One of only two currently flying in the U.S., the Heron was among the first passenger planes built after WWII using riveted aluminum metal construction. Originally built in the 1950s for short-haul commercial flights to often less than ideal landing sites, the Heron featured rugged construction and four reliable engines. Seating configurations varied to accommodate 8-15 people and the average speed was about 160 knots.

DeHavilland Heron File Photo

The "Queen's Heron" was restored to a showcase condition and the fittings in the interior are indeed "fit for a Queen".  Owner, Happy Miles, of Albany, OR, will fly the aircraft during daily showcase flights demonstrating the flying characteristics of this precursor to commercial aviation as we know it.

FMI: www.COPPERSTATE.org