.png){kind=small}
Appearing for the first time at a Classic Fighters Airshow is Mike O’Rourke’s recently restored Yakovlev Yak-7B “Liberte”.
The aircraft was converted from a Czechoslovakian-built C.11 trainer, which originated from the Soviet-built Yak-11 and had served with the Egyptian Air Force. Over the past few decades, several Yak-11s have been converted into various marks of V-12-powered Yak fighters, including the Yak-3 and Yak-9.
This aircraft, however, has been completed as a dual-control Yak-7B and, as such, is believed to be the only one of its type flying worldwide.
When Mike imported the Yak into New Zealand in 2019, it had already done some flying in the USA. However, once it arrived in New Zealand, it became clear that a considerable amount of work would be needed to bring the aircraft up to the required standard.
JEM Aviation Ltd at Omaka was contracted to undertake the restoration. Initially, it was thought the work could be completed within two years, but the further the JEM team looked, the more they discovered needed attention, from one end of the aircraft to the other. A full engine overhaul was also required.
The aircraft finally flew again in March 2026 in the hands of Ryan Southam. Once test flying and pilot conversion are completed, it will be based at its new home in Tauranga.
We are pleased to announce that the Yak-7B will be flying at Marlborough Lines Classic Fighters 2027, alongside two other Omaka-based Yak fighters: Yak-3M “Full Noise” and Yak-3U “Steadfast”.
There will certainly be no shortage of Yaks in the skies over Omaka in 2027. The show will also see the return of the Yak-52 aerobatic team, featuring up to nine Yak-52s flying in formation.
And we may have another Yak-themed surprise or two to reveal as we get closer to Classic Fighters 2027, so stay tuned.
You may also like these articles:
