Historic Aircraft Transport: Horizon Aircraft Trust – A Spectacular Year-End Mission

Horizon Aircraft Trust

December 2024 – we wrapped up the year in style with a remarkable transport operation that turned heads across the UK aviation community. The task…? Safely moving two historic aircraft— a Folland Gnat F1 and a Folland Gnat T1—under police escort from Heritage Aircraft Trust (Essex) to Horizon Aircraft Services (Cardiff).

This high profile transport was an incredible way to close out 2024, showcasing not only the significance of these aircraft but also our exceptional teamwork and coordination required to ensure a smooth and secure journey.

Watch the full video below.

Aviation History On The Move

These aircraft are more than just machines—they are living history. The Red Jet, a Folland Gnat T1, once served as part of the Red Arrows aerobatic team when in service with the Royal Air Force (RAF) during the 1960s and 1970s. With its striking Red Arrows colour scheme and civilian registration G-NATY, the aircraft is currently undergoing restoration by The Heritage Aircraft Trust, with the goal of returning it to the skies in the future.

Equally impressive, the Silver Jet, a Folland Gnat F1, carries a legacy that extends beyond British aviation. This aircraft flew with the Indian Air Force and gained legendary status during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965, earning the nickname “Sabre Slayer” due to its formidable performance against the American-made F-86 Sabres flown by the Pakistan Air Force. Painted in its Indian Air Force colour scheme from that time, the aircraft holds civilian registration G-SLYR. With ongoing restoration efforts, the charity aims to see it return to flight this year.

A Job Well Done

Horizon Aircraft Trust extends its congratulations and gratitude to everyone involved in this extraordinary transport mission. The successful relocation of these two iconic aircraft not only marks a significant milestone in aviation preservation but also highlights the dedication and expertise of all teams working to keep aviation history alive.