The Percival Vega Gull was a pre-war civilian version of the Percival Proctor, which was also a development of the pre-war Gull. The prototype D.1 Gull (G-ABUR), a three seat tourer first appeared in 1932. This was followed by the D.2 which was more commonly known as the Gull IV. In 1934 Percival introduced the D.3 Gull Six which featured the DH Gipsy Six engine, improved undercarriage and cabin arrangements, but retained the Gull IV folding wing. It was in a Gull, G-ADPR that New Zealand Aviatrix Jean Batten set many of her records.

In November 1935 the four seat K.1 Vega Gull was introduced. Powered by the same DH Gipsy Six engine this introduced dual controls and flaps, and was very successful with 90 being produced up till July 1939.
 

A total of 7 Vega Gulls served with the Fleet Air Arm, 5 of which were impressed in January till March 1940, and another being ex RAF Middle East provided to the RN in Dekheila March 1941.  It was primarily used for training and communication work.

The first Vega Gull P5986 was acquired in May 1939, and the first unit being equipped was 754 squadron at Lee on Solent on 24 May 1939. The aircraft G-AFIT served with 780 squadron briefly from June - July 1940 at the height of threat from Nazi invasion  in the role of converting to naval standards civilian trained volunteer pilots.

The Vega Gull was finally retired on 7 March 1945 when P59867 was paid off from 781 squadron at Lee on Solent.

Created 3-4-1999, Modified 3-4-2000

 

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