G-BMDE

Pietenpol Air Camper

A Silsbury masterpiece & LAA trophy winner

This pristine Pietenpol Air Camper was built by Dave Silsbury and first flew in 1988. The aeroplane was purchased by the Childs family in 1993 and has been maintained to the highest standards ever since. Powered by a Rolls Royce 4 cylinder 0-200A with relatively short exhaust pipes, she is often heard before she is seen over Somerset, where she is based.

The Somerset Aeroplane Company carried out a crucial modification in 1995 to strengthen the main wheels to prevent any damage through sideloading. Various work has taken place over the years to ensure her airworthiness including fitting a new propellor, a new 8.33 radio and manufacturing and installing new windscreens. The engine is maintained in house as required and received a top end overhaul in 2014/5.

She is a superb example of 1920s aviation and is much loved by the pilots who fly her.