We are sad to learn of the death of Alex Henshaw who was a great supporter of the Association and was Vice President of the HAA for a number of years. Alex was an outstanding test pilot who will always be associated with the Spitfire during the Second World War having flown over 2,300 individual Spitfires and Seafires from the production line at Castle Bromwich. He also test flew several other types including some 300 Lancasters one of which he famously barrel-rolled, the only pilot to do so.
He was constantly in demand to demonstrate the Spitfire to visiting dignitaries which only went to confirm his ability as one of the greatest exponents on the type alongside his equally famous friend Jeffrey Quill. He was awarded the MBE for his services during the war.
Before the war Alex was already a highly respected pilot famous for his many epic flights including flying to Cape Town and back in 4 days 10 hours and for winning the 1938 King’s Cup air race with a record speed of 236.25 mph that still stands today.
His exploits were recorded in his autobiographies, The Flight of the Mew Gull, Sigh for a Merlin and Wings Across the Great Divide, books which clearly demonstrated his great airmanship and determination that is still an inspiration to pilots today.
Alex will always be remembered as one of the greatest pilots of all time and the Association’s thoughts are with his family at this time.
Photo: Colin Pope