Ep.228 – Jonathan McNee BEM and Aviation Archaeology

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Jonathan “Jonny” McNee BEM is an aviation historian and military aviation archaeologist from Northern Ireland whose work has literally brought lost Second World War aircraft (and their stories) back into the light.

Drawing on years of research and licensed excavations, he has helped uncover wartime aircraft that came down over Northern Ireland and along the Irish border. His aviation work is voluntary and fits around a demanding day job as a Senior Marine Officer.

Donegal Spitfire Browning restored and firing at the Irish Army range

In this episode, we talk with Jonny about what aviation archaeology looks like. He explains how licensed digs are planned and carried out, the care that must go into preserving recovered artefacts to museum standards. We explore some of his best‑known projects, including the “Donegal” and “Monaghan” Spitfires and his work on a Coastal Command Bristol Beaufort.

Cockpit section of a FAA Hellcat recovered from the Sperrin mountains

We also talk about the Fairey Barracuda DP872 restoration in the Fleet Air Arm Museum and Jonny’s role in the project and how this whole aviation circle is always connected amongst us all (somehow)!

Jonny’s Book ‘The Story of the Donegal Spitfire’ can be obtained by making contact through the Facebook group