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🇧🇪 Belgium /Culture & Society

Balen Fly-in Features Historical Blériot XI Replica: An Ode to Flying History

From VRT NWS · () Dutch

Translated from Dutch, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

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  • A historical replica of the Blériot XI, the world's oldest airworthy aircraft, is being showcased at the annual fly-in in Balen, Belgium.
  • The replica was meticulously built by Frenchman Jean-Louis Benoit over 4,800 hours, based on historical documentation.
  • The event celebrates the 70th anniversary of the Balen aeroclub and highlights the early history of aviation.

Balen, Belgium – A meticulously crafted replica of the Blériot XI, recognized as the world's oldest airworthy aircraft, is a star attraction at this year's annual fly-in hosted by the local aeroclub. The event, held at Keiheuvel, also marks the aeroclub's 70th anniversary, adding a layer of historical significance to the festivities.

That aircraft is the beginning of flying; that history must not be lost.

— Marc SaeyExplaining the significance of showcasing the Blériot XI replica at the event.

The replica is the painstaking work of French artisan Jean-Louis Benoit, who dedicated 4,800 hours to its construction. Basing his efforts on old photographs and documentation, Benoit aimed for historical accuracy, recreating not only the aircraft but also the pilot's travel provisions and attire. "People don't believe it when I say it's actually a new airplane; it looks that real," Benoit remarked.

Marc Saey, an organizer from the Balen aeroclub, emphasized the importance of preserving aviation history. "That aircraft is the beginning of flying; that history must not be lost," he stated. Saey highlighted that seeing the Blériot XI evokes a sense of wonder about the daring individuals who first crossed the English Channel in such a machine in 1909.

People don't believe it when I say it's actually a new airplane; it looks that real.

— Jean-Louis BenoitDescribing the historical accuracy and craftsmanship of his Blériot XI replica.

The fly-in, now in its fifteenth year, draws aviation enthusiasts and aircraft from both Belgium and abroad, with this year notably including participants from England. Despite some cloud cover and wind, the event proceeded, with organizers ensuring flights could continue safely. Visitors can enjoy flight demonstrations and admire vintage cars, making it a multifaceted celebration of history and engineering.

If you see the Blériot, you truly discover the beginning of flying history. Now you think: 'Who on earth would want to cross the Channel with that?'

— Marc SaeyReflecting on the primitive nature of early aviation compared to modern standards.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by VRT NWS in Dutch. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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