Winning Lancaster bid from overseas

(Update)
While the campaign is far from finished — bidding has closed in one of the most unique on line auctions ever conducted. And we know who won. The Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum was offering a once-in-a-lifetime chance to fly on board the historic Mynarski Lancaster Bomber from Hamilton, to Lincolnshire, England. The bidding closed last Friday. And tonight we know who won and how much they paid, for an amazing opportunity.

It is a rare bird indeed. One of only two in the world, that can fly. And this August, the historic Mynarski Lancaster will make it’s way to Great Britain — to the “Battle of Britain” visitors centre, in Lincolnshire — to meet up with it’s British cousin. It’s a mission that is monumental, in its scope.

Don Schofield is the chief pilot: “The question was — is it practical, is it possible, is it safe.”

The answer to all three questions was yes. But — it was also hugely expensive. And that’s when the Canadian Warplane Heritage hit upon the idea, of auctioning off the ride of a lifetime. A one way ticket on board the legendary Lancaster to the highest bidder. And that bidder had to offer at least 40-thousand dollars, to make the plan viable. Lo — and behold — they found their man.

Don said: “He is apparently very devoted — quite a student of the history of that period of time, and an absolute fan.”

A fan with deep pockets. His winning bid, came in at $79,100 — nearly twice the amount the organization was hoping for. Who would pay that kind of money for a one way ticket on a noisy, unheated, lumbering relic?

This man. Matthew Munson. A 34-year old web-hosting wizard, and former British entrepreneur of the year. And this flight — is the ultimate no frills experience. No in-flight service, no beverage cart — and:  “There’s no sleeper seats or flat out beds. If you wanted a flat out bed you could throw a blanket on the floor.”

In fact, Munson will undergo four days of intensive training, to become a working crew member on board the historic bomber, as it makes its one and only journey to Great Britain. A four stage, puddle jump lasting — how long?

“In total, I think it was 18 hours and change.”

Guaranteed to rattle your bones, batter your ear-drums, and give you — an absolutely unique experience of a lifetime.

The Lanc will take off from it’s base in Mount Hope on August fourth of this year — following some pomp and ceremony — and will arrive at it’s destination in Britain, at 12 noon, August 8th — at the height of the Battle of Britain commemoration ceremonies.
Can the aging bomber endure such a gruelling trip? Yup. In fact, it has already flown several other loops through Western Canada — that were actually longer in total distance, and time — than the flight they’re preparing for, now.