RAF flying suit, air ventilated, Mk.2C

RAF flying suit, air ventilated, Mk.2C

Code: S27035

SOLD

By GQ Parachute Co. Ltd., Woking, England.  Stores reference 22c/1733-38.  Size unknown.  Circa 1950s.  More commonly known as a 'Fairy' suit, the air ventilated suit was produced to afford relief from the discomfort of high cockpit temperatures by conveying moving air to the wearer's skin through a number of tubes spread over the surface.  It is a simple one-piece 'suit' produced in nylon and fastened with tapes tied at the wearer's back.  The air tubes are made of PVC and routed through nylon channels.  Commencing at a large inlet tube, the system divides into smaller tubes fanning out over the body.  There are a total of 144 tubes in the system.  Worn in conjunction with various outer flying suits including the MK.2 & 2A in the Lightning and other jet aircraft.  It fastens at the back with simple tying tape and velcro at the neck.  Buttoned tabs reduce the opening at the ankle once in place.  The main inlet pipe is rather rigid and there is fairly light marking but otherwise in excellent condition.  With stores label and separate original instruction/care tag.  An air ventilated suit was worn by Kate Bush in the video for her song 'The Dreaming', from the album of the same name, released in 1982.  David Bowie also wore one in the video for his song 'Ashes to Ashes', from the album 'Scary Monsters (& Super Creeps)', released in 1980.  They also formed the basis of the early Dr Who Cyberman suit.  Now rare and extremely difficult to find in any condition.  Stock code S27035.