10 Gig is not really a problem anymore. It is not unusual to install a new server 5*18 Gig nowadays.
Of course this would mean some real hardware for the project, not a cheap virtual server.
IMHO the main work will be to transcribe the reports into text and make these available for research on an SQL-database. The scans of the original texts should of course be available to verify the actual script, but only a good database (including pilot, date, place etc, as far as possible) would make it a real gem.
Of course an own server would allow for a accounting system to get at least some return, but without the sponsor or MUCH dedication I fear that this will be in the future for quite some time.
Good luck in your research. If you ever need some advise in the server/internet-area, feel free to mail me.
