Mechanical problems delay landing Second World War-era plane in Kelowna

An 80-year-old fighter-bomber that was supposed to land in Kelowna this morning on the anniversary of D-Day will remain in Vancouver, likely for the next week, due to mechanical issues.

KF Aerospace announced last week it acquired one of the last de Havilland Mosquitos for its Centre for Excellence, a state-of-the-art aviation museum set to open later this year. The Second World War-era Mosquito was set to take off from Vancouver this morning before landing in Kelowna for a celebration.

READ MORE: Second World War-era Mosquito bomber flying into Okanagan

However, mechanical issues are causing a delay in its flight, and KF Aerospace communications officer Matthew Abrey said a special mechanic has to be flown in to fix the plane and then tests will have to be conducted to ensure it’s ready to fly.

Known as Mossie or the Wooden Wonder, the fighter-bomber boasts an unusual wooden frame, with a record for hitting top speeds on decisive wartime missions.

The British designed twin-engine, two-seat, mid-wing bomber, the de Havilland Mosquito made its debut with the Royal Air Force in 1941. It was used as an Allied night-fighter against the German Luftwaffe and quickly became one of the fastest operational aircraft in the world, clocking speeds of more than 640 km/h, according to KF Aerospace.

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