Historic Avro Anson Mk.I Heads to the Czech Republic

Podhorany u Ronova, Czechia – In an exciting development for aviation enthusiasts and historians alike, the world’s only airworthy Avro Anson Mk.I ZK-RRA formerly serving with the RAF/RAAF as MH120, is set to leave New Zealand and embark on a new chapter in the Czech Republic. This iconic aircraft, which has been meticulously maintained by RR Aviation Ltd. in Springlands, Blenheim, has found a new home at the RAF Station Czechoslovakia, housed within the Aviation Museum Hangar at Podhorany Airfield (LKPN).

The RAF Station Czechoslovakia is renowned for its impressive collection of airworthy historic aircraft, which includes several World War II trainers such as the Miles Magister and a pair of DeHavilland Tiger Moths. These aircraft hold significant historical value, particularly for the Czechoslovak pilots who joined the Royal Air Force after fleeing their homeland during the Nazi occupation.

Avro Anson Mk.I ZK-RRA
Wings Over Wairarapa Air Festival 2023

The Avro Anson MH120 is a welcome addition to the museum’s collection, given its historical significance to the region. Many Czechoslovak airmen were trained on the Anson, and some flew it during anti-submarine patrols with the RAF Coastal Command, while others used it as a stepping stone to piloting the Vickers Wellington bomber.

Since its restoration, MH120 has proudly flown in RAF colours, marked as ‘K6183’ with the code ‘VX-B’. It remains to be seen whether these markings will be altered upon its arrival in the Czech Republic.

A statement from the RAF Station Czechoslovakia highlights the importance of this acquisition: “We present the exceptional Avro Anson Mk.I aircraft with production number MH120 from 1943. It is the only flying specimen of the original Mk.I in the world and one of five British multi-engine bombers from the Second World War. In the first months of the conflict and during the Battle of Britain, the Ansons formed the backbone of the British bombing force. They were widely used against submarines, to accompany ship convoys, reconnaissance missions, and to attack the enemy on the French coast. They later found use as training and transport aircraft and earned the nickname ‘Faithful Annie’ for their reliability. Many Czechoslovak airmen in the RAF also flew in Ansons.”

The restoration of MH120 was a labour of love, undertaken by Bill and Robyn Reid between 2002 and 2012. It was restored to honour its original markings of the 206 Squadron, in tribute to pilot P/O L.H. Edwards. On September 5, 1939, P/O Edwards was shot down over the North Sea by a German Heinkel 115 floatplane. Though the rest of his crew perished, Edwards survived and was taken aboard the He 115, becoming the first Allied prisoner of war in World War II.

With its anticipated arrival at Podhorany slated for February or March 2025, the Avro Anson MH120 will soon become a prominent feature of European air shows, experience flights, and commemorative events.

This transfer marks a significant moment in the preservation of aviation history, ensuring that the stories and sacrifices of those who flew these aircraft are not forgotten. As the Avro Anson Mk.I takes to the skies over Europe, it will serve as a flying testament to the enduring spirit of the pilots and crews who relied on this remarkable aircraft during one of history’s most challenging times.