Rein Inge Hoff - Biltema Airshow
Good day, Rein. Could you share some lesser-known facts about both the P-51 Mustang and the Spitfire?
Certainly, one notable fact about the P-51 Mustang is its involvement in the Football War, which is quite unique. As for the Spitfire, it stands out for its originality. Unlike many other vintage aircraft that have undergone extensive rebuilds using numerous small parts, the Spitfire remains largely in its original form.
That’s fascinating. Moving on to your personal journey, how did you initially get involved in aviation, and what drew you specifically to Warbirds?
My passion for aviation began during my school years when I started flying at the local flying club at Sola Airport in Norway. I completed my first solo flight at the age of 17 and obtained my private pilot license at 18. While attending university, I continued flying and spent considerable time towing gliders at two airfields near Oslo. Alongside glider towing, I pursued modular pilot training, ultimately earning commercial and flight instructor licenses. As a flight instructor, I flew the military training aircraft Saab SB91 Safir, teaching PPL students, aerobatics, and formation flying. This period marked the beginning of my airshow flying career, with my first aerobatic display in a Slingsby T67M Firefly in 2000, followed by formation displays in the Saab Safir. Over time, I expanded my repertoire to include aircraft such as the Boeing Stearman, Yak 52, and Noorduyn Norseman. In 2007, I began my commercial flying career with Sterling European and later Norwegian, flying the Boeing 737. In 2011, I transitioned from the airline industry to focus on roles as a flight engineer on helicopters and conducting flight tests with light aircraft. My most recent project involves the flight test of a fully electric Cassutt racing aircraft. Additionally, I am a member of the Society of Experimental Test Pilots.
That’s an impressive career trajectory. Which aircraft do you currently fly?
Presently, I fly a variety of aircraft including corporate jets, helicopters, and Warbirds. I also engage in training and flight tests for light aircraft. To date, I have flown a total of 65 different aircraft types.
How did you come to work with Biltema?
Biltema approached us in 2018 with the need for a pilot capable of flying both their corporate jet and Warbirds. At the time, there were two pilots at Sola qualified to fly the Mustang, Spitfire, and business jets. Additionally, we had the necessary resources and facilities to maintain these aircraft to high standards. Maintaining the airworthiness of these planes is a significant task, and we are fortunate to have an excellent team at Sola. Our mechanics and technicians perform outstanding work to ensure these aircraft remain operational.
What are the main differences you experience when switching between flying the Mustang and the Spitfire?
Flying the Mustang is generally more demanding due to its metal propeller, which generates higher torque that must be managed during takeoff. In contrast, the Spitfire has a wooden propeller. The Mustang also exhibits less favourable low-speed characteristics and is a heavier aircraft compared to the Spitfire. Consequently, we approach landings with the Mustang at a slightly higher speed and prefer a two-point landing. Conversely, the Spitfire is more manageable at low speeds and can be easily landed with a three-point landing. When asked which aircraft I prefer, my response is that I appreciate the speed and endurance of the Mustang. However, for a short aerobatic flight near the airport, the Spitfire’s smooth handling is particularly enjoyable.
Thank you, Rein, for sharing your insights and experiences. It has been a pleasure speaking with you.
Thank you. It was my pleasure.
