De Havilland DH.82 Tiger Moth

Geoffrey de Havilland was one of the most prolific aircraft designers of all time. He began designing before WWI, becoming the chief designer for the Airco company in 1914. Here, he produced a series of notable D.H. aircraft that served in reconnaissance, fighter and bomber roles. In 1920, he founded De Havilland Aircraft Company and began developing aircraft for the civilian market.

The 1931 DH.82 succeeded the earlier DH.60 “Moth” which had straight wings that made rapid exit from the front cockpit difficult. For this reason, the British Air Ministry rejected the DH.60 as a primary trainer. Modifications followed in the form of the DH.82 which resolved access issues and presented an aircraft with unique lines and practicality. The result was a hugely successful aircraft that was accepted by the R.A.F. and became one of the world’s all-time classic biplanes.

This example has been owned and flown since 1983 by longtime Aerodrome pilot, Bill King and his sons Andrew and Dave. It carries a British registration and the colors of the De Havilland School of Flying.  Dave King regularly flies the Tiger Moth in multiple air show roles: ribbon-cutting, British bomber and balloon-bursting.

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