After our public announcement of the construction of the HP42 project 'Imperial 42' in April, we can now release some further details. We knew right from the start that it was important to give everyone something whilst waiting for the HP42 to be completed. Therefore we started off this year with our exhibition stand. However, from next year we have planned something that will give everyone an idea as to the sheer size of the aircraft, and allow them to experience what the aircraft was like to fly in. The interior is one of the main things the HP42 was known for and something which
everyone we meet comments on. After finding new drawings regarding the internal cabins, we are pleased to say that we are presently creating a full-scale front cabin fuselage section of the Western class of HP42.

This cabin section is being accurately created to the same level of detail as the original, with wooden inlayed panels, armchair seats that you sink into, and the wonderful materials of the era. People will be able to walk through the cabin and marvel at the luxurious interior (and leg space!) of the airliner, and compare it to what they know today. This mock-up is also acting as a good learning process for the interior of the flying aircraft. We also have further additions to our exhibition and an educational programme being launched next year, which will compliment each other.

Right:
John (left) and Neil Farley discussing interiors in a similar environment, a Pullman railway carriage.

Our second announcement is that the HP42 will be using the original type of engine, namely four Bristol Jupiter's. Many people have told us that other similar engine types would have to be used as Jupiter's were now only museum
pieces, however during our decade of behind the scenes work we have overcome this problem. Our aim was to keep the aircraft as close to the original as possible, therefore it is imperative to use Jupiter's. Two of the main reasons are that the engines were not cowled and therefore visible, so using any other type would have made the aircraft look different. Secondly, only a Jupiter would give the right sound for which the aircraft was also known.

Left:
A brand new Bristol Jupiter ready for installation.