The "Amicale du Super Constellation" is always looking for objects related to the history of F-BGNJ. Sometimes we make acquisitions thanks to the relations established with the aeronautical community, or, more simply, by hunting on ebay. But this time, it was by chance of a meeting that we were able to live a very beautiful story.
Our favorite carpet fitter, Guy Vandenbussche, likes aviation in general and the F-BGNJ of course, but also maritime model making. On the occasion of a gathering of enthusiasts, Guy meets another Guy, Guy Robert. The main topic of conversation is obviously boats, but in the middle of this flotilla Guy Vandenbussche talks about his past at Air France. On this, the other Guy, Guy Robert, continues: (Editor's note: I do not guarantee the accuracy of the words):
-"How funny! My father, Gustave ROBERT, was also part of Air France in the 1950s".
The two accomplices forget what floats, the conversation takes height...
- "Aaah, that's funny... I'm part of the Amicale du Super Constellation association which restores F-BGNJ in Nantes".
-"Incredible! It could very well be that Gustave sailed aboard F-BGNJ. I still have some of his belongings, in particular his flight log, I'm going to find out for sure!".
And indeed, Gustave Robert, Radio, sailed on F-BGNJ. With this meeting, an idea made its way into Guy Robert's head. After consultation with the rest of the family, the decision was taken, to the delight of the association, to donate to the Amicale the Air France sailor's suitcase containing the documentation, the flight log and the heading calculator.
To make this donation more solemn we have organized a special visit. Gustave's 2 sons and daughter accompanied by other family members and friends visited us on June 25, 2022. It was an opportunity to immortalize Guy Robert at the radio station, where his father was sitting during long flight hours managing communications with the ground.
Gustave Robert was an Air France flight attendant on the radio in the 1950s and until 1962. He certainly knew, even flew, with our ex-president, who is now deceased: Michel Beyssat.
The delivery of the Gustave effects was a moving moment, a rare moment of generosity. We are honored to be able to keep them with F-BGNJ. Our thoughts wander as we look at this Air France sailor's suitcase that crossed paths with the Connie in the 1950s and which today, in 2022, finds the beautiful bird again.
