Flying and Preserving Historic Aircraft: The Memoirs of David Ogilvy OBE, Vice-President of the Historic Aircraft Association

During his career, David Ogilvy spent more than 50 years in aviation, including serving as a pilot in the Royal Air Force and as Chief Instructor of the Air Schools group. He was also a co-founder of the Vintage Aeroplane Club and the Historic Aircraft Association and was appointed general manager of the Shuttleworth Collection. This book outlines his remarkable career and provides a unique compendium of the flying characteristics of a range of historic aircraft.

Format: Hardback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 20 September 2023
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

David Ogilvy, a man deeply immersed in the world of aviation for over a remarkable span of his professional life, dedicated more than a full working lifetime to this captivating field. As a schoolboy, his passion for aviation was evident from an early age, as he was sent out with a bugle and binoculars, tasked with sounding the alarm if a V1 flying bomb appeared in the skies. His journey into the realm of aviation took flight shortly after, when he enlisted in the Royal Air Force, serving as a pilot for a remarkable six years. During this tenure, he had the privilege of piloting a diverse range of aircraft, from the venerable Tiger Moth to the swift and nimble Mosquito and Meteor.

After leaving the RAF, David embarked on a civilian career that was equally illustrious. For fourteen years, he dedicated himself to the field of pilot training, ultimately rising to the position of Chief Instructor of the Air Schools group. This role entailed overseeing three prestigious establishments, where he imparted his knowledge and expertise to aspiring pilots. Beyond his professional pursuits, David was an avid display and racing pilot, participating in numerous events and showcasing his skills in historic aircraft. At a young age, he recognized the importance of having a representative organization to safeguard the interests and concerns of owners and operators of flyable pre-war machines. In 1951, at the age of 22, while still serving in the RAF, David co-founded the Vintage Aeroplane Club, a pioneering initiative that would go on to play a significant role in the preservation and celebration of vintage aircraft.

In addition to his founding role at the Vintage Aeroplane Club, David was also a founding member and Vice President of the Historic Aircraft Association. His dedication to the preservation and restoration of historic aircraft was unwavering, and his contributions to this field were truly remarkable. In 1966, David was appointed as the general manager of the renowned Shuttleworth Collection at Old Warden. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in acquiring and preserving several historic aircraft, including initiating the retrieval of a 1935 Hawker Hind from Afghanistan. David's passion for aviation extended beyond the cockpit, as he actively participated in the displays and events organized by the Shuttleworth Collection. He flew many of the Collection's remarkable aeroplanes, showcasing their beauty and power to audiences around the world.

This book, written by David Ogilvy, not only chronicles his remarkable career but also delves into his descriptions of the historic aircraft he played a pivotal role in rescuing and preserving. It provides a unique compendium of the flying characteristics of a range of historic aircraft, for which he proudly claimed to be possibly the last man alive to have flown. Away from the cockpit, David was actively involved in numerous organizations, contributing his expertise and time to various causes. His dedication to aviation and his commitment to preserving the legacy of historic aircraft were truly inspiring, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

In conclusion, David Ogilvy's life was a testament to his unwavering passion for aviation. From his early days as a schoolboy sounding the alarm for V1 flying bombs to his distinguished career as a pilot, instructor, and preservationist, his contributions to the world of aviation were immense. Through his co-founding of the Vintage Aeroplane Club and his leadership at the Shuttleworth Collection, he played a pivotal role in rescuing and preserving historic aircraft. This book, written by David himself, provides a captivating glimpse into his remarkable journey and offers a valuable resource for enthusiasts and historians alike.

Weight: 520g
Dimension: 164 x 241 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399044448