| Accession Number | P00355.022 |
|---|---|
| Collection type | Photograph |
| Object type | Black & white |
| Physical description | Black & white |
| Conflict |
First World War, 1914-1918 |
| Copyright |
Item copyright: Copyright expired - public domain
|
RE8 A4397 aircraft "D" of No. 3 Squadron Australian Flying Corps, an early model. This aircraft ...
Description
RE8 A4397 aircraft "D" of No. 3 Squadron Australian Flying Corps, an early model. This aircraft was named "Sylvia", and piloted by Captain Reg Francis. Volume VIII of the Official History notes: "Francis’s machine, No. A4397, made a record in the British air forces on the Western Front by performing 440 hours 35 minutes’ service-flying, and making 147 trips across the line. The pilot and the squadron were specially congratulated by G.H.Q. The previous best record was 427½ hours’ service-flying." The aircraft was brought back to Australia in 1919 for the Memorial's collection, but unfortunately was destroyed (while crated for transport) in an accidental fire just outside the Melbourne Exhibition Building in 1925.