On 5 June 1967, Monarch Airlines was established with a rather aged Bristol Britannia and I doubt that many people had any great hopes for its longevity but, when it was approaching its 50th year of operation, it fell foul of a poor economic situation and collapsed.  A year has gone by since then and Captain Al Evens recalls the events leading up to the demise of this much loved airline in this, the first part of two interviews.

A younger Al before he moved across to the Captain’s seat.

 

Happier days with a much loved airline.

 

Images under Creative Commons with thanks to Sebastian Ballard and Capt Al Evans.