Guy Woolcott

The Vintage Aviator

We endeavour to maintain absolute authenticity with the original design. We make both airworthy and static aircraft for museum display and private collections. Our engineers look after, and operate, the WW1 aircraft owned by the 1914 -18 Aviation Heritage Trust. The Vintage Aviator Ltd. (TVAL) has been working closely with the NZ CAA to fulfil it's obligations as a certified aircraft manufacturer. TVAL Gained CAA approval and was issued it's Part 148 Manufacturing Organisation Certificate on May 10, 2007. It is probably unique within the world aviation community due to the fact that it solely manufactures aircraft from the 1914-1918 period. We work under strict CAA mandates, codes and systems, and CAA regularly audits our systems and procedures. Safety is paramount. TVAL staff have a great deal to be proud of, a state of the art manufacturing facility coupled with an ICAO Aircraft Manufacturing approval. These two remarkable achievements emphasize our commitment to engineering excellence and technical innovation. We are using the most modern technology to reproduce the most accurate aircraft reproductions from a bygone era. Our facilities in Wellington and at the Hood Aerodrome, Masterton are capable of every aspect of aircraft and engine construction imaginable. Our most valuable resource is our skilled craftsmen - specialized woodworkers, welders and machinists, and people experienced in the complexities of fabric covered aircraft. This is the first time since WW1 that these aircraft are being produced in a factory setting, although we utilise the most modern CNC and CAD technology to increase accuracy and reduce labour costs. Working relationships with other restoration facilities and museums in Europe, Australia, Canada and in the USA assists TVAL in sourcing information as well as technical data and original parts for duplication and reproduction. The Vintage Aviator Ltd. works to New Zealand Civil Aviation Administration part 148 standards (FAA part 148) for aircraft manufacturing. This standard is the aviation equivalent to ISO 9001 2000 and the basic principles are that of a total quality management system. This creative manufacturing scheme is a first for New Zealand and the world. Our approved process and procedures manual dictates how we accomplish each task and our inspection process ensures that the highest standards and utmost accuracy are achieved.