This guppy was originally built as a Canadair CL-44 in July 1961 for Flying Tigers registered N447T.
It was sold to Conroy Aircraft in 1968 and they converted it into an oversized fuselage transporter. It was designated CL-44-O (O for Oversize), and first flew in November 1969 in this new configuration.
This was a one-off Guppy conversion and was the last of any of the CL-44 airframes in service.
On July 8, 1970, it was leased to Trans Meridian Air Cargo was named "Skymonster" still retaining it American registration.
In the late 70's early 80's it still operated regularly into Heathrow and as kids we simply knew the aircraft as the Skymonster.
The aircraft is currently grounded and is awaiting the scrappers fate.
(Of course I didn't have a ladder with me, so the only sunny side shot had to be taken with the fence in the way.) grrrrr!
I was lucky to catch the Sea Vixen in its new colours while one a visit to De Havilland Aviation.
[photo/serial list]