Warbird News

[DaveM]

Jet Age: How The Introduction of Jet Engines Revolutionized Aviation

Few advancements have transformed aviation as dramatically as the development and introduction of jet engines. Their introduction marked the beginning of a new era known as the Jet Age. This period, starting in the mid-20th century, witnessed profound shifts in air travel, military strategy, and the overall global landscape.

Grasping the intricacies of the Jet Age can be as challenging as crafting a captivating essay about this historical era. However, if you choose to use a professional online paper writing service and write my essay with best authors, the latter shouldn’t be a problem at all. And regarding the former, this article is designed to provide an accessible and insightful exploration of the Jet Age and its profound influence on aviation, society, and global connectivity.​

The Birth of the Jet Age​

As the Jet Age was taking off, so were the hopes and aspirations of millions around the world. The promise of speed, efficiency, and greater accessibility to distant places was more real than ever. This age of swift air travel began with the introduction of jet engines, marking an irrefutable departure from the era of propeller-driven aircraft.

The invention of the jet engine can be traced back to the work of Sir Frank Whittle in the United Kingdom and Hans von Ohain in Germany. These pioneers worked separately but concurrently, laying the foundation of the jet engine in the late 1930s and early 1940s. Their work ushered in an era that drastically improved the speed, efficiency, and reach of air travel, bringing about the Jet Age.​

The W2/700 engine, or W.2B/23 as it was known to the Air Ministry. It was the first British production jet engine, powering early models of the Gloster Meteor.

Jet Engines: Powering Faster and Further​

What differentiated jet engines from their predecessors was their functioning mechanism. Unlike propeller engines, which generate thrust by moving a large amount of air at a slow speed, jet engines operate by propelling a smaller amount of air at high speed. This principle, based on Newton’s third law of motion, facilitated aircraft to reach higher altitudes and speeds, something impossible with propeller-driven planes.​

Early Challenges and Solutions​

Jet engines, while remarkable for their power and potential, were initially fraught with technical issues. Early jet aircraft were fuel-inefficient and had a limited range, making them unsuitable for long-distance flights. Engine reliability was another significant concern, with early jet engines often experiencing failures and requiring frequent maintenance. However, much like how the academic writing service EssayHub.com helps college students overcome academic challenges, the aviation industry relied on engineering prowess and continuous improvement to push the boundaries of what was possible.

As aviation engineers and mechanics navigated the challenges of designing and implementing a completely new type of engine, they devised solutions to improve the reliability and range of jet-powered aircraft. Their efforts eventually paid off, paving the way for the modern, globally connected world we live in today.​

Commercial Aviation and the Jet Age​

The impact of the Jet Age extended beyond technical advancements. It played a pivotal role in shaping commercial aviation, significantly reducing travel times and making long-distance travel more accessible.

Before the Jet Age, transatlantic flights were long, expensive, and often grueling affairs. The advent of jet engines led to the emergence of faster, smoother, and more comfortable planes. This enabled airlines to offer a greater number of flights, catering to an ever-growing passenger market. As jet engines became more efficient and reliable, long-haul travel was no longer a luxury but a commodity available to the masses.​

The Legacy of the Jet Age​

The Jet Age’s legacy extends to our present day. The influence of jet engines is felt across commercial, military, and space aviation. They power our modern airliners, military fighter jets, and even the rockets that take humans to space.

Jet engines not only revolutionized aviation but also triggered technological and social changes. The need for more advanced jet engines spurred a continuous drive for innovation and research, leading to significant advancements in materials science, thermodynamics, and engineering principles. This age of relentless innovation had a trickle-down effect, paving the way for advancements in various other industries, from energy production to automotive design.​

A JT9D turbofan jet engine installed on a Boeing 747 aircraft.

Socially, the advent of the Jet Age fostered a global culture of connectivity and accessibility. The ability to travel faster and farther broke down geographical barriers, fostering cultural exchange and global understanding. Jet travel played a crucial role in creating our global village, making it possible to have breakfast in New York, lunch in London, and dinner in Dubai. This new reality of interconnectedness has shaped global geopolitics, economies, and cultural exchanges, making the world a more connected and integrated place.​

Conclusion​

The Jet Age was not merely a period of technological evolution; it represented a significant shift in how humanity perceived distance and time. The jet engine, the powerhouse of this era, reshaped the face of the globe, making the world a smaller place.

In the quest to understand the Jet Age and its revolutionary impacts, the best research paper writing services can be instrumental in offering you insights. They will ensure that your exploration of this transformative era is both comprehensive and intriguing, providing a valuable perspective on how the introduction of jet engines changed aviation forever.

In the grand narrative of human history, the Jet Age stands out as a testament to our relentless pursuit of progress. It reminds us that the sky is not the limit but rather a playground for our ambitions and dreams. Through the power of jet engines, we have redefined the boundaries of our world, crafting an era of unprecedented speed and connectivity.​

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[DaveM]

Kermit Weeks’ A-26 Invader Oshkosh-Bound

By Adam Estes

Famed collector and former aerobatics champion Kermit Weeks has many projects scattered not only across the United States, but around the world, from a Ford-Tri Motor in Michigan and a Boeing 100 in Nevada to a CAC Boomerang in Australia, but one of the larger projects may finally be coming home to Florida sometime this year; that being his Douglas A-26B Invader, 41-39401, currently being finished at Aero Trader in Chino, California.​

Kermit Weeks’ Douglas A-26B Invader as she appeared in early February 2023 while sitting outside Aero Trader’s workshop in Chino, California. The aircraft made its first post-restoration flight on February 20th. (photo by Adam Estes)

Weeks’ Invader was built as an A-26B-30-DL at Douglas’ factory in Long Beach, California in November 1944, and accepted into the USAAF on November 28. During WWII, 41-39401 served with the 643rd Bombardment Squadron, 409th Bombardment Group, 9th Air Force, and flew 30 combat missions, being stationed in France from December 11, 1944 to July 15, 1945 when it was flown back to the States and stored at Hobbs Army Airfield, New Mexico, before being transferred to Hill Air Force, Utah on September 1, 1947.​

In July 1952, it was converted to become a C model, and was one of three long nose Pathfinder variants equipped with an experimental infrared detection system for night operations, and would see combat in Korea with the 13th Bombardment Squadron, 3rd Bombardment Wing, 5th Air Force, stationed at Kunsan Air Base in modern South Korea. During this time, 41-39401 would also be flown to the repair depot at Miho Air Base, Japan. On March 21, 1953, the aircraft was reassigned to Iwakuni Air Base, Japan, before returning to the United States to be assigned once again to Hill AFB in April 1954. During this time, its IR equipment was removed, and it was given a hard nose once again. It was then struck from the USAF inventory in February 1955.

In 1959, John R. Moore acquired the aircraft and flew it with the name Whistler’s Mother, along with nose art depicting the eponymous sitting figure with a mug of beer, which was applied for a war movie that was never filmed. Eventually, however, the aircraft became dormant at Van Nuys Airport near Los Angeles until it was acquired by Challenger Publications in November 1982. On August 18, 1983, 41-39401 made its first post-restoration flight, and from 1985 to 1987, it was operated by the American Aeronautical Foundation, retaining the name Whistler’s Mother, making appearances at numerous airshows on the West Coast.​

Acquired by Kermit Weeks in 1987, 41-39401 was flown back to the Weeks Air Museum at Tamiami Airport, where it was maintained in flying condition while Kermit sought to re-establish his base of operations at what would become Fantasy of Flight in Polk City to accommodate his growing collection that was becoming too big for the current facilities at Tamiami. However, disaster struck on August 24, 1992, when Hurricane Andrew made landfall. One of the most devastating hurricanes of the twentieth century, 41-39401 was inside the hangar when the strong winds caused a structural collapse, severely damaging many aircraft. While 41-39401 came out of Hurricane Andrew in better shape than other aircraft in the collection, the roof of the hangar had still collapsed on it, and in 1997, the aircraft was trucked to Aero Trader to begin the painstaking effort of returning the aircraft back to the air. Not being one to miss out on an opportunity, however, Kermit decided to use the restoration to add further details to make 41-39401 as authentic as possible, both livery-wise and equipment-wise, with the notable exception of some new nose art to replace Whistler’s Mother and a new name; Pistol Packing Princess. In May 2022, 41-39401, the Pistol Packing Princess, was flown for the first time since 1992 with Steve Hinton and Mark Moody at the controls. However, during the flight, the canopy latches came loose, prompting a hasty end to the test flight. As Kermit related on his social media pages, this was not an unheard of occurrence on Invaders during the Second World War, and even the previous owners, Challenger Publications, had a similar issue with this very aircraft. The canopy issue has since been fixed, and the aircraft has now completed several successful test flights over the previous spring, with a visit to Oshkosh and eventually back home to Polk City inevitable.

The caliber of the restoration is typical of Aero Trader projects and is sure to sweep the awards ceremony when the Pistol Packing Princess arrives. We wish Kermit and Aero Trader the best of luck, and blue skies and fair winds for 41-39401! Special thanks to Tucker Yamada of Aero Trader, who has provided very insight information and whose tireless work on restoring the Pistol Packing Princess is second to none.​

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[DaveM]

SBD Dauntless Components Displayed at the South Pacific WWII Museum

By Adam Estes

The subject of a January article, The South Pacific World War II Museum of Vanuatu (known as New Hebrides in World War Two) has announced it has obtained the engine and tail section of a Douglas SBD Dauntless dive bomber from Bauerfield International Airport, Port Vila, Efate to the museum in Luganville, Espiritu Santo.​

The Dauntless’ rear fuselage after arrival. (photo via South Pacific WWII Museum)

The identity of the Dauntless is currently unknown, as no data plates have been found on either the tail section or the engine, but it is likely that this was an aircraft that had been one that had been written off and discarded after all useful equipment had been stripped to provide spare parts to maintain other Dauntlesses.​

Both the US and New Zealand had SBD squadrons at Turtle Bay Airfield on Santo during WWII. In this great shot, US SBD-4s are under the palm trees at Turtle Bay, 18 April 1943. US Archives pic.

The Dauntless acquisition began when museum director Bradley Wood came across them at the airport – itself constructed during the Second World War by Seabee units. It had been named after Marine Corps pilot Harold W. Bauer, lost at sea during the Battle of Guadalcanal on November 14, 1942.

After the museum reached out to the public through social media to identify the hitherto unknown remains, Wood and Museum Project Manager James Carter worked with Jason Rakau of Airport Vanuatu Limited (AVL) to acquire the Dauntless relics. However, getting the Dauntless was one thing; the issue now lay with how to transport them about 172 miles (276 kilometers) to the north from the island of Efate to the Museum on Espirito Santo.

Sean Griffith of Ocean Logistics arranged for the Dauntless components to be placed on a barge to Luganville, where museum officials were able to then bring it under the museum’s verandah. With the museum raising funds to build more indoor facilities, it seems likely that the Dauntless remains will be moved there when the time comes, but for now it remains safe and secure in the capable hands of the South Pacific WWII Museum. In addition to any future updates published by Vintage Aviation News, be sure to follow the South Pacific WWII Museum’s social media pages for further developments.​

If you could help the Museum in any way, please get in touch with them. Email James Carter, the project manager, at [email protected] or visit www.southpacificwwiimuseum.com

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[DaveM]

Military Aviation and the Environment: The Unseen Impact

“Vintage Aviation News staff did not write this article; the content comes via our partners who wish to help support our website.”

When we think about the environment and human-induced impacts on it, we often conjure up images of factories belching smoke or traffic-jammed cities. However, there’s another substantial contributor that is less frequently discussed—military aviation. The role of the military in environmental issues is a multi-faceted topic where national security intersects with environmental stewardship.

Imagine being a student tasked with an assignment on this complex topic. In such a case, you should definitely look for a reliable essay writing service to write essay for me. If you simply want to learn more about military aviation and its impact on the environment, this article aims to simplify the topic and provide a deep understanding of the environmental impacts associated with military aviation.​

The Carbon Footprint of Military Aviation​

Emissions from Military Aircraft​

Military aircraft, like their civilian counterparts, contribute to carbon emissions, a significant driver of global climate change. However, their impact is typically larger due to the use of specific types of jet fuel and the often-inefficient engines of many military planes.

While exact figures can be elusive due to the classified nature of much military activity, it’s clear that these emissions contribute a substantial share of the aviation industry’s overall carbon footprint. From fighter jets to large transport planes, every sortie contributes to this impact.​

The Impact of Sonic Booms​

Sonic booms, the explosive sounds caused when aircraft fly faster than the speed of sound, can have unexpected environmental impacts. They can cause damage to buildings and other structures, disturb wildlife, and even affect human health with their shockwaves.

Though sonic booms aren’t a source of pollution in the traditional sense, their impacts on the environment and communities underscore the broad range of effects military aviation can have.​

Ecological Consequences of Military Bases​

Land and Habitat Disruption​

Military bases, home to large fleets of aircraft, can have direct ecological impacts. The construction and maintenance of these bases often involve deforestation and land transformation, disrupting local ecosystems and species habitats. Moreover, noise pollution from frequent flights can disturb wildlife behavior and breeding patterns, leading to long-term effects on biodiversity.

In addition to direct habitat loss due to construction, military bases can introduce invasive species into the environment, either inadvertently or as part of their operations. These non-native species can outcompete local wildlife for resources, leading to decreased biodiversity and even the extinction of endemic species in some cases. Additionally, the land surrounding airfields is often kept clear of large vegetation, further affecting local habitats and species.​

Pollution from Runways and Maintenance​

Runways and maintenance facilities at military bases often contribute to water and soil pollution. Leaked fuel, oil, and other chemicals can contaminate local water sources and soil, affecting both wildlife and local communities. Efforts to minimize and clean up such pollution are ongoing, but the impact remains significant.

Apart from fuel and oil leaks, harmful substances can also enter the environment during routine maintenance operations. Cleaning agents, solvents, and other chemicals used to maintain and repair aircraft can end up in local soil and water if not properly managed. Moreover, fire training exercises often involve the use of foam containing per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are extremely persistent in the environment and can have serious health impacts.​

Reducing the Environmental Impact​

Advancements in Technology​

Thankfully, steps are being taken to reduce the environmental footprint of military aviation. Advancements in technology, such as more fuel-efficient engines and the use of alternative fuels, are starting to emerge. Some forces are even exploring the use of electric planes for certain applications.

Emerging technologies are also making operations less disruptive to wildlife. For instance, bird strike prevention technology can help to minimize the impact of military aviation on bird populations, reducing both environmental impact and flight risks. Furthermore, drone technology and other unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) can serve some of the functions traditionally carried out by larger, more polluting aircraft, presenting a potentially greener alternative.​

Policy and Oversight​

Increased policy oversight and environmental accountability can also make a significant difference. By incorporating environmental impact assessments into military planning and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, military forces can work to minimize their impact.

Policy changes can also target the environmental footprint of military bases themselves. Incorporating green building principles into base construction and maintenance, managing waste more effectively, and taking steps to prevent the introduction of invasive species can all help reduce the ecological impact. Similarly, stronger regulations can be put in place to manage the use and disposal of harmful chemicals in maintenance operations. In this way, military forces can become better stewards of the lands they occupy.​

Conclusion​

The environmental impact of military aviation is a significant but often overlooked issue. Understanding this impact is the first step toward mitigating it, and it’s an area ripe for research, innovation, and policy action. Just as high school and college students might seek out the best assignment services to excel in their studies, it’s essential that military forces leverage technology, policy, and best practices to reduce their environmental footprint.

Like any complex problem, the intersection of military aviation and the environment requires a multi-faceted solution. It’s a challenge that demands our attention and action—for the sake of our planet and future generations.​

“Vintage Aviation News staff did not write this article; the content comes via our partners who wish to help support our website.”

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[DaveM]

Flying Legends Airshow 2023 Ready to Go!

The Fighter Collection’s famous Flying Legends Airshow – previously held at Imperial War Museum Duxford – will take place just a few days from now, but at a new venue over the weekend of July 15th/16th, 2023. Leeds East Airport (formerly RAF Church Fenton) in Yorkshire, England is set to become the show’s new home… at least for 2023.

“Come and join us at the biggest and best classic aviation event in the world,” the organizers recently declared on social media. It is hard to disagree with such a statement either… This is certainly an invitation which many aviation fans of this iconic warbird and historic aviation event are eagerly looking forwards to accepting!​

For 2023, Flying Legends anticipates the participation of up to thirteen Supermarine Spitfires, which the organizes say will appear “in a unique and exciting aerial demonstration!” A diverse array of other historic aircraft already feature in the lineup, with more confirmations expected to follow. In addition to the Spitfires, we should expect to see 4 Hurricanes, 3 Corsairs, 3 Mustangs, 3 Buchons, 3 Beech 18s, 2 Warhawks, 2 Bird Dogs, plus a Hawk 75, P-36, Lightning, Thunderbolt, Wildcat, Bearcat, Fury, Gladiator, Swordfish, Mitchell, Dakota and an Electra 12a. The complete list of aircraft scheduled to attend is available HERE.

As usual, Flying Legends will present a superb line-up of significant aircraft. The new venue is similarly historic, as during the height of the Battle of Britain in September, 1940, Church Fenton hosted RAF No.71 Squadron, the first of the so-called “Eagle Squadrons” made up of American pilots wishing to take the fight to the Nazis before the U.S. entered WWII. At the time No.71 was flying Brewster Buffalos, but they soon converted to the Hawker Hurricane Mk.I.

For those interested in attending the 2023 Flying Legends Airshow, it is via advance ticket purchase only – please don’t forget to also select your car pass when ordering tickets too! TICKETS ON SALE HERE: https://www.flyinglegends.com/tickets​

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[DaveM]

Historic Curtiss C-46 Commando Joins The Collection at The Military Aviation Museum

PRESS RELEASE

VIRGINIA BEACH, VA (JULY 11TH, 2023) – The Military Aviation Museum proudly announces the acquisition of the Curtiss C-46 Commando, known as “The Tinker Belle,” from its caretakers, the City of Monroe, NC, in partnership with the non-profit organization Warriors and Warbirds. This remarkable aircraft, the only flying example of its kind in a museum collection, will make its debut at the South Pacific Luau and Hangar Dance on July 22nd.​

Tinker Belle landing after dropping paratroopers at the Military Aviation Museum’s Warbirds Over The Beach air show in 2013. (Photo by Richard Mallory Allnutt)

“The Tinker Belle” has long been a centerpiece of the Warbirds Over Monroe Air Show at the Charlotte-Monroe Executive Airport, where it was based. It has captivated audiences across the United States and Canada, becoming a symbol of the heroic efforts during World War II.

Officially designated as the Curtiss C-46 Commando, “The Whale,” as it was affectionately known, played a crucial role in Air Transport Command operations over the Himalayan Mountains, famously referred to as “The Hump,” in the CBI (China-Burma-India) Theatre during WWII. The crews who flew these C-46s became the backbone of history’s then largest and still longest airlift. Despite their tremendous achievements, this triumph came at a significant cost, with the loss of numerous aircraft, crew, and cargo.​

The former City of Monroe, North Carolina’s magnificent Curtiss C-46 Commando providing a perfect backdrop at the Geneseo Air Show (Photo by Tom Pawlesh)

By the end of WWII, the Hump airlift operation was a staggering endeavor, with aircraft crossing every 1.3 minutes on average. Over 34,000 USAAF personnel and 47,000 local laborers from Burma, India, and China were instrumental in making this airlift operation a reality. It even involved utilizing local elephants to replace unserviceable forklifts.

Museum Director Keegan Chetwynd expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Visitors to the Museum will have the unique opportunity to witness this extraordinary aircraft up close and, in the near future, even step inside ‘The Tinker Belle.’ The first chance for the public to experience this is expected to be during the South Pacific Luau and Hangar Dance at the Museum on July 22, 2023.”

Pete Hovanec, Monroe Communications and Tourism Director, shared his excitement, saying, “We couldn’t be more thrilled to see ‘The Tinker Belle’ join this remarkable organization dedicated to preserving and operating historic aircraft. We have full confidence that the Military Aviation Museum will showcase this rare bird for years to come.”

The addition of “The Tinker Belle” to the Military Aviation Museum’s collection is a significant milestone, honoring the heroic achievements of the past and preserving the memory of those who served. The Museum invites aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike to witness the expected debut of this iconic aircraft at the South Pacific Luau and Hangar Dance, promising an unforgettable experience.

If you have any questions, please call 757-721-7767 or visit https://militaryaviationmuseum.org/. The Military Aviation Museum is located at 1341 Princess Anne Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23457.

About the Military Aviation Museum:

A 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit organization, the Military Aviation Museum is home to one of the world’s largest collections of airworthy military aircraft from World War I and World War II. Truly a living museum, its aircraft are in restoration at facilities around the world. Besides the main Museum the Virginia Beach complex features additional exhibition spaces, including a mid-1930s Luftwaffe hangar, originally from Cottbus, Germany, which now serves to house the Museum’s collection of WWII-vintage German aircraft. Additional structures include the WWI Hangar, and the original control tower from RAF Goxhill built in England in 1942. Visit www.militaryaviationmuseum.org for more information or call 757-721-7767.​

The Military Aviation Museum’s North American P-51D Mustang standing in front of the authentic WWII airfield watch tower which once served at RAF Goxhill during the war. The MAM dismantled the structure, piece by piece, and reassembled it on their premises in Pungo, Virginia. Photo via Mike Potter

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[DaveM]

Yankee Air Museum Flies Detroit This Weekend

PRESS RELEASE

Adventure awaits Detroit-area residents desiring a visceral experience on historic aircraft this weekend at the Yankee Air Museum. On Saturday, July 15th you can fly in a Huey helicopter with the doors wide open and the wind rushing over your face. Or encounter the power, nimbleness and iconic sound of radial engines of the World War II battle-tested B-25 on Sunday, July 16th. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience history in flight.​

Come and see how this Vietnam War Huey operates and then decide if a ride is for you! For only $125.00, you can take a thrilling 10-minute flight with a new perspective from the air. This experience is not your typical airplane ride; you’ll feel the difference from lift-off to landing. Book your ride/time in advance or take a chance and walk up that day. Rides occur from 10:00 am until noon; to order tickets in advance go to Historic Plane Rides | Yankee Air Museum | Southeast Michigan or just walk up at the Yankee Air Museum, located at 47884 D Street, Belleville, Michigan to see what’s available.

Take a ride into yesteryear on the B-25 Rosie’s Reply on July 16th at the Roush Aeronautics Center located on the Willow Run Airport at 48075 Tyler Rd, Van Buren Charter Township, MI 48111. Our B-25D-35 is the only flying model of that aircraft today and is one of very few aircraft that experienced combat during WWII. Public rides on the B-25 are available at 11:00 am until 2:00 pm. The ride is a 20-minute experience and costs $475.00 per person for one of four rear-compartment seats, which also gives access to the turret and tail section. Two flight deck and nose seats are also available for $575. To reserve your seat, go to Historic Plane Rides | Yankee Air Museum | Southeast Michigan.

Experience a ride that thousands of Allied troops took during World War II on a C-47 airplane on July 15th at the History on Wheels event located at Grosse Ile Municipal Airport at 9601 Groh Road, Grosse Ile, MI 48138. Experience Planes, Trains, Automobiles, and Motorcycles at the event which has a $5 entry fee, but children 10 and under are free. The gates open at 10:00 am and close at 2:00 pm. Take a quick ride around the pattern in an aircraft that pays homage to the heroic crews operating in the China-Burma-India (CBI) theater of World War II.

For thrill-seekers desiring a once-in-a-lifetime experience, rides on the C-47 are available at 10:30 am and 11:30 am. This short introductory ride called “Fly The Pattern”, is $95.00 per person. Order now at Historic Plane Rides | Yankee Air Museum | Southeast Michigan or take a chance and walk up the day of the flight.

The C-47, Hairless Joe, is owned and operated by the Yankee Air Museum and was one of the most vital pieces of military equipment in winning the war according to General Dwight D. Eisenhower. The C-47 Skytrain was developed from the Douglas DC-3 civilian airliner. One of the most mass-produced aircraft in history with 11,000 manufactured before and during WWII, there are still 172 of the aircraft flying today. Also known as the Gooney Bird, the C-47 was built to last.​

The Yankee Air Museum’s C-47D “Hairless Joe”. (photo by A.Kevin Grantham)

About Yankee Air Museum

Established in 1981 the Yankee Air Museum is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization. The Yankee Air Museum dedicates itself to educating individuals through the history of American aeronautics, the aerospace industry, and its associated technologies while inspiring generations through personal experiences to instill pride in our national accomplishments. Visit www.yankeeairmuseum.org to discover more or call 734-483-4030.​

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[DaveM]

Combat-Veteran Curtiss P-40N-5 Project for Sale

An artist’s profile of how the P-40 would have appeared during its time with the 49th FG in WWII. (image via Platinum Fighter Sales)

Amongst the many significant aircraft on their books, our sponsors at Platinum Fighter Sales regularly feature combat-veteran warbirds on offer. One of the more fascinating projects within their inventory at present is P-40N 42-105744 which served with the US Army Air Forces’ 8th Fighter Squadron of the 49th Fighter Group in the Pacific Theatre during WWII. According to the details provided, this aircraft rolled off the Curtiss factory line in Buffalo, New York during 1942 and eventually made its way to the South Pacific to join in the war effort. At some point, it is known to have flown with the name Flo II and the unit number, 63, painted in yellow on its nose, as depicted in the wartime image below.​

P-40N-5 42-105744 while serving with the 8th FS/49th FG in the South Pacific when Lt.Charles A. Peterson was its pilot. (image via Platinum Fighters)

Between September, 1942 and May, 1944, the 8th Fighter Squadron was based at various locations in New Guinea. One of the Squadron’s pilots, Charles A. Peterson, is known to have scored a brace of aerial victories in Flo II during the spring of 1944. Peterson eventually gained command of the 8th on May 22nd, 1944.​

The squadron patch for the “Black Sheep” of the 8th Fighter Squadron during WWII.

While the exact fate which befell 42-105744 during WWII is unknown at present, it clearly was involved in a significant accident of some kind. The wreck ended up being pushed into a hole and buried in Finschhafen, New Guinea, as did numerous other aircraft during the war. And there the P-40 seemed destined to stay until some intrepid salvagers recovered her mortal remains during the 1990s. The current owner began a restoration effort in Melbourne, Australia about twenty years ago, and has made significant progress with the fuselage reconstruction, incorporating as many original parts as possible.​

The partially completed P-40N Warhawk project as it sits today. Numerous other parts are included in the project. (photo via Platinum Fighter Sales)

According to Platinum Fighter Sales, the project comprises the partially rebuilt fuselage and numerous other parts (email Platinum for a list and photographs) as well as substantial original wreckage, including the wings, which confirm the airframe’s identity and provenance.​

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[solomon]

Sounds even better than my old Bonneville. Although, on kickstarting I sometimes get more impressive flames coming out of my carbs.


View: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Em7rWr4UBHM

 

[solomon]

Fun fact. Triumph motorcycle engines flew in action in WWII.

And parachuted into the frontline action too.

https://www.sopwithmotorsports.com/triumph-square-barrel-wwii-bomber-grand-prix-winner/

 

[DaveM]

The Tinker Belle Arrives at Military Aviation Museum!

The Military Aviation Museum achieved a significant milestone over the weekend with the arrival of their latest acquisition, Curtiss C-46F Commando 44-78774, better known as The Tinker Belle. After a significant effort by maintenance staff from the Fighter Factory and local personnel in Monroe, North Carolina, The Tinker Belle made the flight to her new home successfully on Saturday, arriving a little after 6pm. The museum stayed open a little later than usual so that visitors could witness the historic aircraft’s arrival. They held a small party afterwards, with a specially made cake bearing an image of the aircraft in the icing.​

The Tinker Belle on the ramp at the Military Aviation Museum following her ferry flight from Monroe, North Carolina. (image by Justin Fortier via Military Aviation Museum)

While in good overall condition, the aircraft had not flown in a couple of years, so her regular aircrew no longer had currency on type – neither did anyone else in the ‘lower 48’ either, since The Tinker Belle is the last flightworthy, US-based Commando outside of Alaska. Indeed, Everts Air Cargo of Fairbanks and Anchorage, Alaska is the last US operator of the type, with four active C-46s currently on their books. This presented a small problem in getting the aircraft to Virginia Beach, but thankfully, Everts was able to provide one of their highly experienced Commando pilots, Terry Galyean, for The Tinker Belle’s ferry flight from Monroe, North Carolina. The Military Aviation Museum’s chief pilot, Mike Spalding was in the right seat, while Al Lintz, the museum’s senior director of maintenance served as engineer/scanner for the flight.​

The Tinker Belle leaving Monroe, North Carolina for the ferry flight to the Military Aviation Museum. (image via City of Monroe Facebook Page)

Now that the aircraft is safely home, it will need to undergo a period of TLC before it can begin flying at Museum events and air shows further afield. Once the aircraft is ready, Museum pilots will then undergo type-rating training with help from Everts, although the team hasn’t yet decided whether that will take place in Alaska or Virginia yet. In the meantime, the C-46 will serve as a marvelous exhibit, helping retell the oft-overlooked story of the C-46 pilots and aircrew who flew often perilous missions “Over the Hump” to transport precious war materiel from India over the Himalayan mountain range to where it was desperately needed in China to combat the Japanese.

The Museum is planning to allow visitors to tour inside The Tinker Belle on certain days, with the first such opportunity arriving this coming Saturday (July 22nd) during their annual South Pacific Luau and Hangar Dance Event.​

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[Vector]

C46 was not an easy flying airplane.

 

[Vector]

Dad was a Naval Aviator, flew F6F's and was Carrier Qualified.

 

[Greyfell]

C46 was not an easy flying airplane.

Really? That's pretty much all Steve Canyon flew.

Who? see avatar...

 

[solomon]

Here's a Triumph 500 engine that would have been in a WWII Lancaster bomber...

 

[DaveM]

Aviation Cultures Mk.VII – Free Online Open Conference

Aviation Cultures Conference, Mk.VII will take place this Thursday and Friday (July 20th/21st 2023 Eastern Australian time). The well-respected and entertaining annual conference has something for almost everyone interested in flight, varying from aviation archeology to spaceflight to history and pop-culture (see the schedule for each date below). What’s more, access is available online for free! All attendees must pre-register to participate by emailing [email protected] by July 2oth, 2023 to receive a Zoom link.​

Please note that the conference times are Australian Eastern states hours so check your local equivalent, which may well be significantly different to your local time zone.

The conference is jointly presented by Aviation Cultures Inc and PopCRN, the University of New England’s Pop Culture Research Network. The wide range of topics includes a number which are bound interest to Vintage Aviation News readers. The full list is available via the link below.

Aviation Cultures Link ​

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[DaveM]

Flying Legends North – “Like Duxford, Only Better”

by Stephen Bridgewater

Following a four-year hiatus the Flying Legends Air Show took place again on July 15th and 16th, 2023, albeit at a new location, the former RAF Church Fenton airfield now known as Leeds East Airport near Tadcaster in Yorkshire, England. In the 30 years since Stephen Grey and his team at The Fighter Collection (TFC) decided to run their own warbird show, the Flying Legends brand has become one of the most powerful in the historic aviation world. Spectators, pilots, and aircraft travel the globe to soak up the atmosphere at what is, without a doubt, an event like no other.

That inaugural Flying Legends – during which TFC’s then-new Grumman FM2 Wildcat assumed center stage – took place on the May Day Bank Holiday Monday in 1993, but from the following year, the show became a two-day affair in July. Over the years, the event grew in stature to become the show for warbird aficionados, and the only place in the world that has seen displays from aircraft as diverse as a Saab B.17, FlugWerk FW 190, Grumman F3F, and Polikarpov I-16 Rata. Such is the draw of Flying Legends that operators have raced to get their latest restorations completed in time to debut at the show – and TFC has done likewise…

In 1997, the collection’s newly acquired P-51C Mustang made its first flight on the morning of the show whereas other debutants have included TFC’s Spitfire V (EP120) and XIV (SM832).​

All change!

Following a highly successful airshow in 2019 which included Guy Black’s 1918 Airco DH.9 (the world’s oldest airworthy bomber), crowds went home eagerly anticipating what the 2020 Flying Legends might bring. However, as we now know, that year’s air show season fell victim to the global pandemic. On April 20th, 2020 TFC’s Nick Grey (son of Stephen) released a stirring video address, finishing with the words: “Thank you for your understanding, for your passion and commitment. Look out for one another, stay optimistic, and remember, fly safe!”

Later that year, Grey made another somber announcement, telling show fans: “I look at this and the years gone by with immense gratitude for all the wonderful moments we have lived with you our faithful and fanatical community. It is with a heavy heart that we confirm 2019 was the final Flying Legends with our friends at IWM Duxford.”

Plans to move the event to Sywell near Northampton in 2021 came to naught and in 2022 there was further disappointment when Grey announced: “Our search for a suitable alternative to Duxford has not been successful, despite our best efforts.”

Many predicted that this marked the end for the world’s foremost warbird gathering, but much to the community’s delight a surprise announcement arrived stating that the show would return for 2023… but at a completely unexpected location.

Church Fenton:

Last weekend, on July 15th/16th, the much anticipated 30th anniversary Flying Legends airshow took place at Leeds-East Airport, the former RAF Church Fenton. Not only is it apt for this festival of aviation to relocate to a wartime airfield that once hummed to the symphony of Merlin music from Spitfires and Hurricanes, this event is also one of the few new air shows taking place in Northern England in several decades.

Church Fenton is a historically significant site, having played a crucial role in Britain’s wartime defense as a frontline fighter base and maintenance facility for battle-weary aircraft. There has been an active airfield at the site since 1937 when Church Fenton opened during the RAF’s massive pre-war expansion effort. It was designed as a fighter base from the start, charged with protecting Yorkshire and Humberside from attack by enemy bomber formations. Post-war, it became a training base for fledgling pilots until the final military aircraft left in 2013. Today it is a busy general aviation airfield.

Weather woes

Although the United Kingdom has endured high temperatures for much of the summer, the weekend of July 15th/16th dawned wet, windy, and wild. Saturday was marred by powerful thunderstorms and torrential rain, but this was interspersed with bright sunshine and spectacular cloudscapes making for atmospheric photographs. Sadly the weather closed in again ahead of the traditional ‘Balbo’ formation finale which Flying Legends is so famous for, so – with discretion being the better part of valor – the show’s organizers decided to abandon flying at around 4:00 pm.

Luckily, Sunday remained dry. Although the wind remained strong and gusty, it blew straight down the runway so a majority of the aircraft managed to display.​

Top-side-tastic

Readers familiar with air shows at Duxford will be aware that either ‘The Tank Bank’ or the far left of the runway near the M11 motorway are the preferred areas for photographers wanting to capture the display aircraft performing top-side passes. However, the proliferation of villages and ‘no fly’ zones around Duxford – as well as the motorway itself and the Stansted Airport restricted airspace overhead – mean that the flying displays at that airfield can be quite constrained…

This is where Church Fenton really came into its own! With no controlled airspace in the area, unlimited vertical display manoeuvers were permissible. Furthermore, the lack of surrounding housing estates permitted event organizers to establish a curved flight line, ensuring that aircraft could display in a dynamic and photogenic style. Aircraft were also able to fly orbits ‘around’ the audience and use areas at the extreme ends of the crowd line for innovative manoeuvers on the 45-degree line.

Merlin Symphony

Since the earliest days of Flying Legends, the air show has always started with the ‘Merlin Symphony’ featuring large numbers of Supermarine Spitfires flying in formation before they perform an aerial ballet to open the day’s proceedings. It was pleasing to see this tradition continue at Church Fenton, with eight examples of RJ Mitchell’s classic fighter taking to the skies.

Hopes for a nine-ship were dashed when Air Leasing’s Spitfire Tr.9 (ML407) suffered a brake problem during start-up on both days of the event, but the remaining eight consisted of a trio of Mk.Vs (EP120, EE602, and JG891 flown by Stu Goldspink, Jim Schofield and Brian Smith respectively), Mk.VIII MT928 flown by Martin Overall, Mk.IXs MH415 (Alex Smee) and MH434 (Paul Bonhomme), PR.XI PL983 (Lars Ness) and the recently-restored Spitfire Mk.XIV RM927 of French-based W Air Collection flown by Brice O’Hayon.

Following a series of formation flypasts, the formation split into two groups. The Mk.Vs performed orbits around the audience (constant right-hand circuits to provide top-side passes then flying behind the crowd), while the others remained in front of the spectators, roaring down the main runway.​

Airshow highlights​

Battling the weather, the organizers, pilots, and Flying Control Committee improvised as best as possible to keep the action going – albeit not necessarily in the intended running order. Highlights were many and varied, including a typically lyrical display from TFC’s Chief Pilot, Pete Kynsey, in the collection’s F8F-2P Bearcat – which has now been operated by the Grey’s for more than four decades! ‘PK’ was joined for part of his display by Rolf Meum flying TFC’s FG-1D Corsair and Edmond Salis in the Salis Collection’s F4U-5NL Corsair – the bent-wing pair then going on to perform a rip-roaring tail chase!​

Flying Legends has always been an international affair and this year was no exception. Flying in from Austria with their highly polished B-25J Mitchell and P-38L Lightning, the Flying Bulls performed against some of the weekend’s most dramatic skies. Following an energetic pairs display, the duo split up, with Frederic Handelmann and Ludwig Reiter taking center stage to throw the B-25 around like a fighter – reminding the audience just how maneuverable this medium bomber is at low altitude!​

Eskil Amdal then had an enviable opportunity to put the Lighting through its paces, using the unlimited vertical airspace to good effect, with a swooping, looping routine which showed the potent fighter’s capabilities to great effect. Taxying in after his display, the Norwegian pilot – who also flies the F-104 and F-35 – received a much-deserved spontaneous round of applause from the audience.

Unique formations

Every Flying Legends is littered with ‘Only at Legends’ formations, and this year was no exception. A highlight for many was a four-ship display by the TFC ‘Hawk’ fleet, with Stu Goldspink flying the Merlin-powered P-40F Warhawk leading the P-40B, P-36, and Hawk 75 flown by Paul Bennett, Patrice Marchasson, and Baptiste Salis respectively.​

Unfortunately, the much-hoped-for formation of the weekend never happened as – despite the best efforts of the entire Air Leasing team – the restoration of Anglia Aircraft Restorations’ Hawker Tempest II MW763 was not quite finished in time to make its planned debut at Flying Legends. While this was disappointing, it did provide an opportunity for former Red Bull Air Race world champion Paul Bonhomme to give a sublime solo aerobatic display in Anglia Aircraft Restorations’ former Iraqi Air Force Hawker ISS Fury.​

A Tempest II has not been displayed at a UK air show since the 1950s, so MW763 is one of the most eagerly-anticipated restorations in recent times. Doug Arnold’s famous Warbirds of Great Britain organization imported seven ex-Indian Air Force Tempest Mk.IIs to the UK in 1979 but not one has returned to the skies as of yet.

Arnold sold MW763 to Nick Grace and Chris Horsley’s Tangmere Flight in 1980 and the pair had plans to restore it – and a Tempest Mk.V – to airworthy condition. But when Grace was tragically killed in a car crash, the project was sold to Brian Angliss’ Autokraft organization and registered G-TEMT. It later passed to Tempest Two Ltd and restoration work was undertaken at Gamston, Sandtoft, and Wickenby airfields before it was eventually sold to Graham Peacock’s Anglia Aircraft Restorations in 2014. In an odd twist of fate, MW763’s restoration was entrusted to Air Leasing Ltd – owned by Richard Grace – who remembers playing in the fighter’s fuselage as a child when it was owned by his late father, Nick.

Another hoped-for debutant at the event was the P-51D Mustang 45-11518, which is also under restoration at Air Leasing on behalf of Graham Peacock. The former RNZAF Mustang will be familiar to many readers as G-MSTG, owned, restored, and flown by Maurice Hammond as Janie until it was badly damaged in an accident in 2016. Now registered as G-CLNV, it is being restored to two-seat TF-51 configuration and reportedly destined to appear in the black-tailed markings of the 23rd Fighter Group during their time in the China-Burma-India Theatre – similar to those worn by the Dakota Territory Air Museum’s Lope’s Hope 3rd and Kitty IV. While it too was not completed in time to appear at Flying Legends 2023, G-CLNV was interestingly listed in the commemorative program as belonging to the Salis Collection.

John Tyrrell’s P-51D Mustang Miss Helen (G-BIXL) was another no-show and although the Comanche Fighters P-51B Berlin Express and P-51D Hun Hunter made their way to Church Fenton for use by the Horsemen, they remained grounded all weekend due to the strong winds.

Mustang fans were not to be disappointed though as Anglia Aircraft Restorations’ TF-51D Contrary Mary took to the skies on both days in the hands of Australia’s Cameron Rolph-Smith for a very spirited routine. The Mustang was joined by the same operator’s P-47D Thunderbolt Nellie B, which was flown with verve by RAF F-35B pilot Nick Smith (son of famous display pilot Brian Smith).​

Maximum effort

While all the crews made a tremendous effort to reach and display at Flying Legends this year – with rain, wind, hail, and thunderstorms hampering many efforts – special mention must go to Andrew Davis who flew the open-cockpit Fairey Swordfish torpedo bomber (W5056) the 200+ miles from RNAS Yeovilton to Church Fenton. It seems highly apt that Navy Wings’ Swordfish – currently the only airworthy ‘Stringbag’ anywhere – should make the journey to Church Fenton, as Blackburn Aircraft built it under license nearby at Sherburn-in-Elmet. Still in operation now as a private airfield, the circuit at Sherburn-in-Elmet is visible from Church Fenton, and when – as the rain began to intensify on Saturday – the unmistakable shape of a Swordfish was seen climbing slowly into the wind towards Flying Legends a cheer went up around the site!​

Battling blustery conditions, Davis performed a memorable solo display; TFC’s Grumman Wildcat, which was scheduled to join W5056 as a tribute to the Fleet Air Arm, was unable to fly due to the inclement conditions.

As the Swordfish set off for Sherburn-in-Elmet at the end of its display on Saturday, the skies began to blacken, the wind picked up and it began to hail! Midway through a display by a pair of Cessna Bird Dogs (themselves a welcome first for Flying Legends), the Flying Display Director took the wise decision to cancel the rest of the day’s flying and the audience scampered for cover in the hangars or made their way to their cars.

Day Two

Sunday dawned much brighter and dryer, but with a persistent high wind, which meant that flying would undoubtedly be affected. Nevertheless, the show went on, and – to everybody’s delight – most of the aircraft took to the air!

Church Fenton’s first resident squadrons flew Gloster Gladiator biplane fighters, including the first of that type to be delivered into RAF service. It had been hoped that TFC’s Gladiator II (G-GLAD) – which flies in the No.72 Squadron markings of a Church Fenton-based airframe – would display at Flying Legends. Sadly the wind prevented this but, having been unable to fly on Saturday, it was a delight to see the Church Fenton ‘tribute’ take place with three Hawker Hurricanes and three Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Is on Sunday.

Many squadrons and aircraft types operated from Church Fenton, including the first ‘Eagle’ Squadron of American volunteers who came to Britain to fight before the US formally entered the war. The airfield was home to No.71 ‘Eagle’ Squadron from September 19th, 1940, with US pilots flying the Spitfire and Hurricane – so seeing the six aforementioned warbirds take off from the airfield was a dream to behold!

First into the skies was James Brown in his Battle of Britain veteran Hurricane Mk.I R4118, quickly followed by Gabrielle Barton in the Anglia Aircraft Restorations’ Dunkirk veteran Hurricane Mk.I P2902. Bringing up the rear was Mark Levy flying the Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar’s Hurricane Mk.X AE977.

Following a formation routine, the hapless Hurricanes were ‘bounced’ by Steve Jones and Dave Puleston in Hispano HA-1112 Buchons (representing Bf109s) from the Aircraft Restoration Company and Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar. Luckily, the cavalry soon arrived in the form of a trio of Spitfire Mk.Is! Jon Gowdy led the formation in the Imperial War Museum’s Dunkirk veteran N3200, being joined by Brian Smith in Comanche Fighters’ X4650 and Pete Kynsey in the same organization’s AR213. The latter has operated as a warbird in the UK since its initial acquisition by Group Captain Allen Wheeler in 1947! It now wears the markings of P7308, as flown by No.71 (Eagle) Squadron pilot P/O William Dunn.​

The Heavies

While familiar Flying Legends favorites such as the Bristol Blenheim and Boeing B-17G Sally B were both notably absent from this year’s event – and the planned attendance of the Swiss-based Classic Formation’s Douglas C-47 and a trio of Beech C-45s were marooned on the continent by bad weather – fans of multi-engined warbirds were not disappointed.

French-based Chalair’s C-47 Skytrain (F-AZOX) was on static display all weekend and departed during the Sunday afternoon show and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’s Avro Lancaster amazed many doubtful attendees by braving the weather on Sunday. Flown by Paul ‘Ernie’ Wise, the Lancaster cruised serenely over Church Fenton on its way home to RAF Coningsby from its only appearance at RIAT 2023 – the weather keeping it grounded over the rest of the weekend. Normally, the Lancaster would be the star of most shows, but at this year’s Flying Legends that honour fell to the newly-restored 1936 Lockheed 12 belonging to Fighter Aviation Engineering. This aircraft was imported into the UK by Sydney Cotton in 1939 and registered as G-AFTL to British Airways as a cover for its real purpose. Tango Lima was fitted with two 70-gallon tanks to improve its range, while fuselage hatches were installed to hide a series of F.24 cameras fitted in the aircraft’s belly. G-AFTL is said to be one of the world’s most historic photo-reconnaissance aircraft still in existence; Cotton used it to photograph military installations across the German Reich shortly before the outbreak of World War Two in 1939. Having arrived back in the UK in May 2022, after an absence of more than 75 years, G-AFTL completed its first post-restoration flight from Sywell Aerodrome less than a year later on March 27th, 2023, with Pete Kynsey at the helm. The aircraft performed its Flying Legends debut on Sunday, flown by vintage airliner expert pilot Jon Corley – who was previously Chief Pilot at Air Atlantique.​

The Balbo

Having been thwarted by the weather on Saturday, hopes were high on Sunday that conditions would allow the iconic Flying Legends Balbo to take place. After much deliberation, a decision was made and Pete Kynsey fired up the Bearcat and led out 18 other aircraft for a stream take-off.​

The ‘Joker’ routine traditionally keeps the audience amused as the other aircraft form up for their massed flypast. After Stephen Grey’s retirement from display flying in 2014, this role has passed to his son, Nick. A keen proponent of the biplane fighter, Nick had hoped to perform the Joker slot in his beloved Gladiator, but the wind conditions were out of limits for the Gladiator, so Grey opted to make Spitfire Mk.V EP120 as his steed for the role.

His typically punchy, and yet poetic aerobatics display was punctuated by flypasts from the Balbo. This year, the mass formation consisted of the following:

Lead Section: Bearcat (Pete Kyney), FG1D Corsair (Brian Smith) & F4U-5 Corsair (Edmond Salis)

Second Section: P-47 (Nick Smith) & TF-51D (Cameron Rolph-Smith)

Third Section: P-36 (Patrice Marchasson), Hawk 75 (Baptiste Salis) & P-40B (Paul Bennett)

Fourth Section: P-40F (Stu Goldspink) & 2 x Buchons (Dave Puleston & Steve Jones)

Fifth Section: Spitfires MT928 (Martin Overall), MH415 (Alex Smee), MH434 (Paul Bonhomme), PL983 (Lars Ness), & RM927 (Brice O’Hayon)

Sixth Section: P-38 (Eskil Amdal) & B-25 (Frederic Handelmann & Ludwig Reiter)

With the Red Bull P-38 and B-25 landing first, the remaining aircraft then split into small sections before performing run and breaks to land.

Another Flying Legends was over; the 30th edition of this world-famous event and the first at its new home.​

The verdict

Much to the frustration of the organizers, the traditional ‘first weekend in July’ Flying Legends slot was unavailable at Church Fenton this year, having already been booked by a GA trade show. Other weekends were also impossible for a number of logistical reasons and the only available dates clashed with the large Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) air show at RAF Fairford.

While this was much to the chagrin of enthusiasts, it is worth remembering that this was not a decision to deliberately clash with RIAT. The TFC team was faced with two choices – either run the event when they did or don’t run it at all! While this did result in late confirmation of the show – by which time many loyal Flying Legends fans and traders had already paid for tickets and accommodation at RIAT – the organizers have promised a return to the usual dates from 2024 onwards.​

Likewise, the decision to move the show to Church Fenton, which is close to York and Leeds but a 150mile/2.5-hour drive from Duxford, also drew complaints from enthusiasts in the south of England. Nevertheless, committed airshow fans traveled from around the UK, Europe, Scandinavia, the USA, and the rest of the world to attend the inaugural Flying Legends North.

The author attended RIAT on Friday and then drove up to Church Fenton that evening, ready to be at Flying Legends as soon as the gates opened on Saturday morning. Could the show have been better? Yes, of course, it could. The weather didn’t help and the number of traders was much lower than normal – presumably because of the late announcement of the date. Compared to Duxford there was obviously no museum to tour, but there was nevertheless plenty to see, including locally-based aircraft and ground entertainment ranging from 1940s singers and a very realistic George Formby impersonator to Laurel & Hardy reenactors and a group depicting characters from the classic British TV comedy show about the French Resistance, ‘Allo ‘Allo.

The site was rather disjointed, with access between the north and south sections of the crowd line hindered by the need to walk around the rear side of the hangars, but there was plenty to see and the catering facilities were plentiful, good quality, and (relatively) affordable.

Ahead of the show, many online ‘pundits’ predicted “traffic chaos” at Church Fenton – yet in reality, the traffic flowed freely with no queues getting either in or out.

Those who chose not to attend because it was “too far”, “the traffic would be chaos”, “it will never happen” or “the weather is bad” really missed out on memorable flying by rare airplanes at a location seemingly ideal for display flying. With the longstanding arrangement with Duxford terminated straight after the Covid-induced hiatus and plans to move to Sywell thwarted, many predicted the end of Flying Legends. Having been missing from the airshow calendar since 2019, it is not inconceivable that the organizers for Flying Legends could have given up on the show entirely – but to their credit, they persisted and – as a result – discovered a location which, with a couple of minor tweaks, could become the perfect airshow location.

Flying Legends is back – long may it continue!​

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[DaveM]

Tunison Foundation Starts PBY Restoration

by Luc Zipkin

Without a doubt, World War II fighters and bombers are fantastic machines. As they once were critical to the war effort, they are now critical to preserving the memory of the brave men and women who fought in this global battle, too. Walk around any air show, and it’s easy to see; the Tuskegee Airmen, the Doolittle Raid, Memphis Belle, and more are passionately commemorated by many thoughtful and active flying museums and private individuals. Indeed, many of us will be fortunate enough to see a gathering of Corsairs at this year’s EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. But in recent years, as operating and acquisition costs for fighters and other warbirds have risen due to a variety of cultural and market factors, some organizations have found a new opportunity to honor the service of those whose stories only rarely made it to Hollywood. Today, a strong contingent of transport, liaison, and training aircraft form a growing proportion of the types which are actively flown by volunteer-led museums – of which the Tunison Foundation in Oxford, Connecticut is a great example.​

(photo by Alan Wilson via Wikimedia)

Like many warbirds today, Placid Lassie would not be airworthy were it not for her rescue spurred on by one passionate private individual. Lassie, the Foundation’s 1943-built Douglas C-47 Skytrain, served in WWII Operations Neptune, Market Garden, Repulse, and Varsity; in other words, she is a combat veteran with a significant to her name. Until rescued by James Lyle, a New York-based British businessman, Lassie lay derelict in Covington, Georgia. When he purchased the C-47 in 2010, Lyle was already fascinated by interesting aircraft. An active pilot with a particular passion for amphibious flight, he purchased a Consolidated PBY Catalina project in 2008, amongst other amphibians. Although the C-47’s restoration to wartime configuration took place relatively quickly, with the Skytrain making it to Normandy in time for D-Day’s 70th anniversary, her owner’s personal life underwent changes over time and he eventually chose to step away from warbird flying. His C-47 and PBY moved on to the then-new Tunison Foundation in 2017, which intended to preserve and operate both aircraft.

By 2019, commemorative festivities for the 75th anniversary of D-Day were in full swing, with the Tunison crew at the head of the U.S. contingent of C-47s – 15 in total – which crossed the Atlantic for the occasion. The project was a success, with few mechanical issues and resulted in many flights over historic sites and interactions with thousands of Europeans grateful for America’s contribution to the war effort. Upon their return to the U.S.A. in July 2019, the Tunison Foundation’s crew set about creating a DC-3/C-47 operators support group; the Foundation started to use the Normandy trip as a launchpad for a more secure future for Placid Lassie and the PBY, which included a permanent hangar. Lassie had lived outdoors, mostly, since about 2018, shifting between Fort Pierce and New Smyrna Beach, Florida, Oxford, Connecticut, and eventually Schenectady and Albany, New York – never a good thing for an antique airplane. Fate, however, had other plans, with the Covid-19 pandemic canceling Oshkosh and many other events crucial to the survival of the warbird industry; a great deal of momentum was lost as a result.​

That’s All Brother and Placid Lassie… two marvelously restored D-Day veteran trainsports flying over the chalk cliffs near Dover, England. . (photo by Rich Cooper/COAP)

Fast-forward to 2022, however, and things began looking up again. With the Foundation making a conscious effort to grow its volunteer corps, a new group of passionate people became involved in the preservation and operation of Placid Lassie – almost 100 fresh faces in total. In the fall, a hangar became available in Poughkeepsie, New York, and the Foundation jumped at the chance to secure it. The C-47 could now get in-depth maintenance attention and a permanent home!

The PBY, however, was still languishing in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, sitting outside with less of a chance of survival and airworthiness every day she lay in the salty Floridian air. The team cringed to think about the potential corrosion issue which they might find upon returning her to New York. Although it could prove to be a great opportunity to preserve another lesser-told story, as in the case of the C-47, the Catalina restoration project would clearly be a huge lift! For one, they are huge aircraft, with a wingspan of 104 feet and a gross weight of over 35,000 pounds, and the type possesses numerous mechanically complex and difficult-to-source components. While the team felt fairly confident that they could operate the aircraft in her eventual airworthy state thanks to several multi-engine seaplane-rated pilots being in the group and lots of experience working with Pratt & Whitney R-1830-92 engines, the volunteers who had restored Placid Lassie a decade earlier had by this time left the group – leaving the team without the experience of a major restoration project. Money and time, too, were going to be huge hurdles to overcome. Estimates for the restoration timeline and budget burgeoned to US$1 million over 10 years. It quickly became clear to the Tunison crew that this could become a daunting proposition if not managed properly.​

Beyond the scope of the restoration, the Catalina itself was something of an enigma. Manufactured in 1943 at Consolidated’s plant in San Diego, California, PBY-5A Calatina BuNo 48423 served with VPB-73 out of Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn, New York during 1944 and 1945, before performing air-sea rescue operations out of San Juan, Puerto Rico until 1946. Like many PBYs, she ended up in storage for a decade and then passed through a variety of Canadian survey companies until about 1997.

Although BuNo 48423 lacks the same kind of distinguished identity and combat provenance as Placid Lassie, she too has had her moment of fame. In 1997, she was purchased by a company associated with Greenpeace, an environmental advocacy group. For several years, the Catalina served the enviro-warriors as a reconnaissance aircraft helping police overfishing practices in the Mediterranean in rather spectacular fashion, with a huge rainbow on the tail and “Greenpeace” emblazoned on her sides.​

Unsurprisingly, there was soon a newspaper exposé in Europe and Greenpeace quickly did away with the PBY. Following this, the PBY lay dormant in Duxford, England for a number of years, changing hands repeatedly and generally deteriorating despite several efforts to restore the airframe. It is believed that this PBY has flown only three times since 1998. While James Lyle sponsored restoration efforts for the PBY, first at Lee on Solent, then later at North Weald and Biggin Hill, he decided to change direction in 2015, choosing to restore the aircraft in North America. As a result, he relocated the PBY to Florida, where the project sadly lost momentum. When Tunison took ownership, the fledgling Foundation could not support both a massive restoration project and the operation of the C-47, so the Catalina continued to sit in Florida.​

A 2019 photo of the PBY in storage in Port San Lucie, FL

However, the new hangar in Poughkeepsie has raised new possibilities for the project! The passionate new corps of volunteers set about moving the aircraft and a mountain of spare parts from Florida to New York – no small endeavor! First, a particularly hardworking, heat and humidity-resistant contingent of volunteers loaded thousands of components, ranging from all manner of hardware and fittings to entire, crated Pratt & Whitney R-1830s, into six full tractor trailers for the journey north. Donations began to trickle in, and the money was soon put to good use. The two most promising core R-1830 engines made their way to J & E Aircraft Co. (a noted radial engine overhaul shop in Miami, Florida) for evaluation pending the completion of the airframe.

The aircraft’s center section, consisting essentially of the pylon on which the wings rest and the middle part of the wings from the center of the aircraft out to the engine nacelles, had significant corrosion and was judged to be nearly unsalvageable. As a result, it was traded for a potentially airworthy section with the Collings Foundation of Stow, Massachusetts. The center section was promptly dispatched for restoration to Charles “Tuna” Hainline in Houston, Texas. Through the winter of 2022-2023, the team made progress sorting through the huge cache of PBY parts at the hangar in New York, with the biggest hurdle being shipping the PBY fuselage north from Florida. After months of negotiating with trucking companies and the issuing of oversize transport permits for numerous states, the flying boat finally made its way out of Florida. Work on Catalina’s restoration is planned to begin this summer, with the eventual hope being the production of an airworthy (and seaworthy) aircraft that can tour and fly for extensive periods. The Catalina would be joining the small class of around 15 airworthy examples commemorating the service of this unique type.​

While the Foundation has yet to choose a Catalina identity or type of service to commemorate this restoration, their earnest effort is already an example of the shift taking place in the warbird industry. As fighters and bombers become prized collectors’ items, we as warbird enthusiasts are increasingly reliant on the transports, search-and-rescue, liaison, and trainer aircraft to interact with our shared history.​

Thankfully, organizations like the Tunison Foundation are responding with thoughtful, passionate, and authentic restorations which will return the emblems of the Greatest Generation’s sacrifice to the skies. The compelling story of the Tunison PBY means that the Foundation has already raised more than $500,000 – or half of the estimated $1 million restoration cost. They will still need lots of help from all of us though, not to mention the dedication of numerous volunteers to bring another example of this under-appreciated airplane to the skies! To support the Tunison Foundation and this restoration, visit www.tunisonfoundation.org​

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[DaveM]

American Airpower Museum To Host Honor Flight Veterans Reunion

The history and heritage behind Honor Flights is certainly something special, and the American Airpower Museum plans to honor that on August 5, 2023 when they co-host a patriotic reunion of 37 Vietnam, 2 WWII and 5 Korean War Veterans. These veterans were on an honor flight to Washington D.C. back in April of 2023, and will again be honored when the American Airpower Museum hosts their upcoming event. On Saturday, August 5, 2023 the museum’s Hangar 3 will be open to the public beginning at 10:30am.​

The reunion portion of the event will run from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. The American Airpower Museum (AAM) and Honor Flight Long Island will honor the attending veterans during the “Ceremony of Honors,” at which time each veteran will be presented with a “tribute journal” that includes an array of photo memories gathered during their trip to D.C. The event will further include speeches by Honor Flight Long Island President, Bill Jones, and AAM President and Founder, Jeff Clyman. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla Band will be in attendance and perform a selection of patriotic music. Free cake, coffee, and refreshments will be enjoyed by all.

Honor Flight Long Island escorted all 44 veterans on an early morning flight to our nation’s capital on April 29, 2023. Veterans and their guardians visited many memorials and monuments, including the WWII, Korean War, and Vietnam War Memorials, Arlington National Cemetery where they observed the “Changing of the Guard,” the Air Force Memorial, and the Iwo Jima Memorial. Upon their return to ISP Long Island MacArthur Airport on the evening of the 29th of April, they were welcomed by the Nassau County Fire Fighters Pipe and Drum Band, plus thunderous applause by hundreds of family, friends, and supporters.​

Nine WWII veterans, pictured here with their Honor Flight escorts at the National WWII Memorial in Washington, DC on October 3rd, 2021, will be taking part in a public reunion at the American Airpower Museum on December 4th. (photo by Marc Farb for Honor Flight Long Island)

According to Bill Jones, Honor Flight LI President, West Point 1972 Graduate and U.S. Army veteran, “This special flight included 37 Vietnam veterans who received long overdue recognition and thanks for their military service. They were accompanied by seven elder comrades – two WWII and five Korean War veterans. What this flight really represented was a ‘Big Hug’ to all our veterans from Honor Flight, their families and supporters who make such flights possible.”

AAM and Honor Flight Long Island encourage the public to make plans to attend this reunion, as they pay tribute to these very special veterans. Anyone from the general public arriving between 10:30 am and 12:00 pm will attend free of charge. After, 12:00pm regular museum admission applies: museum members are free and non-members are $15 for adults, $10 for children ages 5-12, and free of charge for children 4 and under. American Airpower Museum is located at 1230 New Highway, Farmingdale, NY. You can learn more about the event at www.americanairpowermuseum.com​

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[DaveM]

El Viaje De La Dama Española – The Journey of the Spanish Lady

By Angela Decker

Deep in the heart of Texas lies a historical gem that tells the story of two countries, two continents, two pasts, with its original and historic livery and configuration. This AT-6D, owned by the Texas Warbird Museum, owned and operated by the Reily Family, is ready to take to the skies over the northern mid-west this week, as history takes flight and hits the “road” to Oshkosh. This specific T-6 will be making its first appearance at both Wings of the North in Eden Prairie, MN this weekend preceding AirVenture, and then at EAA’s AirVenture in Oshkosh, WI. With this year marking the 85th Anniversary of the North American T-6, it only seems fitting that this Spanish Lady should grace warbird fans with her presence at the epicenter of aviation enthusiasts.​

Much like Spain itself, La Dama Española(The Spanish Lady) T-6 has an exotic and colorful history, tempered by a touch of mystery. She was produced in Dallas, Texas on July 17th, 1944, and just celebrated her 79th birthday this week. Following the day she rolled off the production line is where that bit of mystery comes in from her past. She is known to have been part of the war effort in some capacity. Most T-6s were used for pilot training, gunnery training, towing targets, transporting, and other various tasks that made the T-6 the workhorse of WWII. However, the Reilys have not yet been able to find specific records that definitively determine how this future Spanish T-6 was utilized during its time with the United States military.

Following the end of WWII, the T-6 was still widely and actively utilized by the newly formed United States Air Force. In fact, versions of the T-6 served in various capacities during the Korean War in the 1950s, including as forward air control. This Spanish T-6 is believed to have stayed in active duty, potentially training pilots for the United States Air Force or the Air National Guard. Records show that this T-6 was likely stricken from inventory in the U.S. and sold to the Spanish government in 1954 to be used in both training and combat. A T-6 in combat? That seems a bit unusual; however, this T-6 has specific attributes that show it’s combat history. Under the wings, she has gun blisters. Used to catch the empty rounds of ammo, this feature is obviously rather rare on a T-6. In addition to the gun blisters, it this lovely lady also has a bomb release lever inside the cockpit, an extremely rare find on a T-6.​

Gun blisters on the underside of the wings confirm the combat past of this T-6.

The Spanish Air Force found the T-6 to be a very useful aircraft for combat missions. They saw the strength of the T-6, along with its ability to be agile at a slower speed to be an excellent fit for a ground attack aircraft for their Air Force. Utilized in a similar fashion as the A-10 Warthog today, their fleet of T-6s were used in Northern Africa, Morocco, and Guinea. The T-6 served the Spanish Air Force well, and it was not until June of 1982 that they retired their T-6 inventory. The T-6s remaining in inventory at that time were either sold to collectors or utilized for scrap metal. Fortunately, for The Spanish Lady, she was saved from the scrap heap and imported back to the United States.

This particular T-6 only had one owner between its time in the Spanish Air Force and its current home with the Texas Warbird Museum. It spent the last 40 years tucked away at a private airstrip in Georgia. It was owned by an older gentleman who would take her out for a spin a couple of times a week to keep the aircraft and his abilities current. While most T-6s sold off by the Spanish Air Force and imported back into the U.S. were repainted to an “American” warbird livery, this owner opted to keep the livery and configuration the same as when it was in service in Spain. That singular decision to leave this airframe as a literal capsule of its history actually gave this T-6 a brighter future. Its ability to tell a story and create living history that can be touched and seen by the public is exactly what the Reilys were looking for when they purchased the Spanish T-6.​

The Reilys had been searching for a T-6 to purchase for some time. But as fate would have it, every time they would go on a journey expecting to come home with at T-6, they would return with a different warbird. Before purchasing the T-6, they acquired a Vultee B-13 and a North American T-28A Trojan. Both aircraft were purchased on the road to the perfect T-6. And in August of 2022, it seemed that the yellow brick road had finally led them to Oz when they found this T-6 up for sale. Their immediate concern was the gun ports and the nose gun and whether or not they would find corrosion in those areas. Many T-6s that had gun placements eventually developed corrosion from the gunpowder use, especially around the compartments in the wings. Much to their delight, upon inspection there was no corrosion In fact, those areas almost appeared like new.

The fact that this airframe also proved to be historically configured and the paint scheme authentic, were definite factors in the acquisition. In fact, the paint scheme is the original paint from its combat days in Spain. The paint might appear to have scratches, blotches, chips, and fading, but the Reilys feel this more accurately tells the story of this T-6 and the history of the Spanish T-6s. The markings themselves were hand-painted with precision. “One of my favorite markings on our T-6 is the very rare 912 Squadron markings located just below the front cockpit on the fuselage. Again, this marking was put on by a steady hand and paintbrush with the 912 squadron, which was one of their most successful combat squadrons”, said Hunter Reilly. Not only is the paint scheme fully original, the cockpit is still configured with all of its original radios and equipment. Should you choose to reference the WWII Pilot Operating Handbook for this version, you would find the cockpit layout to be identical. It’s a true time capsule.​

La Dama Española (The Spanish Lady) will be flying into AirVenture in Oshkosh with a mission to encourage people to engage with history. The Reily family can often be found at events and fly-ins with a line of people waiting to see their aircraft, as they enjoy engaging with the public and passing on the history of these lovely warbirds. Flying and sharing history is a family affair. Both Jeremy Reily, father, and Hunter Reily, son, are experienced pilots, with is Devyn Reily, wife of Hunter, a newly minted T-6 pilot. So, look to the skies over Oshkosh for this beauty as she takes to the skies throughout the week. You can encounter the Spanish T-6 for yourself parked in the T-6 line-up in the Warbirds area of AirVenture. Be sure to ask them about her history, check out the hand painted 912 Squadron markings on the fuselage, grab a photo or two of this lovely and authentic lady, and follow the Texas Warbird Museum as they seek to share history with the next generation!​

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