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This Yak 3, number 6 of 10 new production Yaks was initially based in the United States but was purchased by New Zealander Graeme Frew in 2004. A full overhaul of the airframe, engine and all systems was carried out by Omaka-based JEM Aviation. During the rebuild, they also set about the complicated task of installing the second seat. The aircraft flew again in March 2012 and when not on air show or fighter flight ride duty, the Yak plays a starring role in the Dangerous Skies WW2 exhibition as part of the Eastern Front display.
Image: Yak-3 'Full Noise' - Photo by Gavin Conroy
Graeme had always harboured the idea of returning to Reno and completing the circle from rebuild to racer. And so it was that in 2017 a small team of aviation enthusiasts packed the fighter into a container and shipped it 10,000 km away to America. A race name was needed, and ‘Full Noise’ was suggested as this was how they intended to race, and the number 35 was chosen as the racing number in homage to Kiwi motorbike legend Burt Munro. Team Full Noise would go on to compete twice at the prestigious National Championship Air races at Reno, Nevada, USA both times featuring in the pinnacle event, the Unlimited Gold Race. Sadly, a global pandemic put paid to plans to compete again in 2020.
A precautionary aborted take-off resulted in some damage in May 2023 so the opportunity was taken to once again make our little Yak even better. Her debut public appearance will be right here at Omaka, featuring a new engine and prop combination, a refreshed colour scheme and some clever detail changes. Full Noise will be unlike any Yak-3 in the world, come and see why at Classic Fighters 2025!
We’re now taking bookings for flights in Full Noise. Don’t just watch history-be part of it.
About Marlborough Lines Classic Fighters Omaka: The airshow is the main fundraising event for the Omaka Aviation Heritage Museum, located in Blenheim, Marlborough NZ.
