Warbird News

[DaveM]

Lancaster NX611 ‘Just Jane’ – Restoration Update 201

As most of our readers will know, Avro Lancaster B.VII NX611 Just Jane is under restoration to airworthy condition with the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre at the former RAF East Kirkby airfield in Lincolnshire, England. The group continues to make magnificent progress, and we thought that everyone might like to see a recent (edited) report, reproduced here with permission. You can help support this important project, details if you click HERE.​

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The Rivet Club – Newsletter 201

by Andrew Panton

Here we are at the start of September and we’re all asking ourselves ‘where has the year gone?!’ But let’s not forget that our progress brings us a year closer to the finish date for NX611’s return to flying condition!

Chris is now very close to the completion of the airframe work on NX664’s nose section. You will all remember that this nose section has been loaned to us so that we can restore it to a taxying condition and fit it to NX611 for a year, allowing us to restore NX611’s nose to airworthy condition. Over these past eight weeks, Chris has been working through all of the repairs and new skins required to restore NX664’s nose. There are just three skins left to replace before the nose is ready for repainting and internal equipment fit-out.

Chris has been repairing a section of the lower floor and the transport joint (which had a steel plate riveted to it from a previous repair!). With that poor choice of material, the previous repair ended up causing some dissimilar metal corrosion which we had to deal with. The corroded area of the lower skin was cut out, with the remainder prepared for a repair patch. The previous steel repair was replaced with a thick gauge aluminum angle extrusion. We removed the corrosion from the transport joint, with the component deemed within limits (for taxying). This just left the production of a new floor intercostal before all of the parts could be riveted back together again.​

Intercostal and repair patch trial-fitted.

Port side skins pinned in place on NX664’s nose and ready for painting.

Lower skins on the port side removed and new skins roughed out.

Port side skins primed and pinned back in place ready for riveting.

Corroded sections of nose floor skin have been cut out, with the remaining material now ready for a repair patch.

Corrosion to the transport joint removed and the area primed.

Rivets in place for the floor repairs.

With the floor repair complete, Chris has continued to work around the nose skins – removing, reproducing, and pinning in place new material or patch-repairing where possible. Chris and Jacob have riveted in the initial set of skins on the port side of the nose, resulting in a lot of strength going back into the structure.

Thankfully Chris has managed to refurbish some of the heavily wheeled skins that lie at the very front of the nose (between the turret aperture and Bomb Aimers blister). This has avoided the need for a lot work reproducing the parts. The completion of the structural work on the French nose section feels like a great leap forward for the team, readying us for the winter when we plan to swap the nose and port wing on Just Jane.​

Starboard side new skin and the re-wheeled air vent shroud.

Skin (including the Rebecca aerial mount) from the starboard side.

Starboard side forward skin removed, beaten smooth and re-attached.

Chris and Jacob have begun riveting the skins back on to the port side of the nose.

The starboard side of the nose receiving more skins.

Jacob and Chris continue riveting skins back on to the port side of the nose.

Repair to another former inside the nose (forward of the escape hatch).

Cupola removed from the French nose turret ready for new Perspex.

New Perspex formed and fitted to the French nose turret by Ade.

Keith has now taken the wing to a point where the leading edge is ready to be fitted to the main wing structure, a situation which will likely occur this week. Keith has fitted all of the rivets on the wing’s upper face and has moved on to the production of wooden ribs which sit in the leading edge and support the engine control cables and electrical wires. While Keith was making a set for NX664’s wing, he also started producing a complementary set for NX611.

Placing the leading edge back on top of the wing structure will feel like a huge step forwards with this part of the project, making the wing look very much like it is almost complete ready to be fitted this coming winter. This will likely be the first Lancaster wing constructed since AVRO ceased production of the type.​

New leading edge nose ribs in NX664’s port wing receiving newly-wheeled skins.

Keith producing the final skin for the leading edge.

Top skins in the wing riveted up and ready to receive the leading edge.

Keith producing new wooden ribs which carry wiring and engine controls through the wing leading edge.

New wooden control run ribs completed for the wing leading edge.

Jacob has returned from holiday, and has been able to make headway on the outer extremity of NX664’s wingtip, along with one of its internal ribs. This wingtip is being restored to a static condition to go back to France with the eventual return of the wing. Jacob has also been helping Chris with NX664’s nose as and when another pair of hands has been required for riveting and back-drilling.​

Jacob’s end sweep structure taking shape for NX664’s wingtip.

NX611’s rear fuselage has progressed very well over the last few weeks. Dave has completed all of the replacement formers (frames) for the area forward of the tailplane. Norman has also been progressing the fuselage stringer replacements, working around Dave’s replacement formers.

We currently have an order in with Capalex for the extrusion of more stringer material. This new batch of stringers will need joggles in the end sections – never an easy task with this kind of material. In order for us to produce these joggles, we must receive the stringer material in T4 hardness state. The softer material state makes the aluminum alloy more malleable, allowing us to put a joggle into it without cracking the extrusion. Once the joggles are in, the parts will return to Capalex for heat treatment into their harder T6 end state. We will then trial-fit the parts into the fuselage and then complete the remaining work on this major sub-assembly.

Now that Dave has finished the former replacements, he can move on to producing some more floor intercostals where they are required. The floor area can then be trial fitted, painted and riveted into position, returning a lot of strength back into the fuselage.

The majority of the skins for the rear fuselage have already been roughed out; they are awaiting the completion of the stringer replacement before being trial-fitted and trimmed. While the rear fuselage is removed from NX611, it will be completely fitted out as it would have been at the point of production with its ammo tracking, Elsan toilet, etc.​

The penultimate fuselage former for NX611 pinned in place leaving just the rear door frame former (note the red tag) left to repair.

All of the forward formers are now complete, with just the last of them awaiting paint. Dave can now turn his attention to the floor intercostals.

New floor intercostals under construction.

Looking forward over the next few months, we should see NX664’s nose and port wing completed. NX611’s rear fuselage should also be structurally complete and removed from the jig. This should mean that 2024 will be devoted towards restoring NX611’s nose and port wing. We also expect the arrival of NX664’s mid-rear fuselage at East Kirkby. It will receive the same treatment as the nose has, so we can fit it to NX611 next year.

Our GoFundMe wings campaign has reached over £55,069 of the £500,000 required! Thank you to everyone who has contributed, as you have helped us to pay for the jigs and aluminum. If you would like to contribute to the Wings Fund and receive your special Wings Fund badge then please click on the button below (badges are sent for donations above the £50).

Many thanks for your support.

Andrew Panton​

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The latest restoration video…​

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That’s all for this particular update. We hope that you have enjoyed reading it. As can be seen, a lot of work remains to be done, but the aircraft is well on the way back to flying condition. It is being done in a methodical and careful manner in order to keep the aircraft available for ground-running operations during the summer months. For those interested in helping support this important project, please click HERE

Be sure to check out their store HERE as well… There are many cool items to buy that will help get Just Jane back in the air!​

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[DaveM]

For those that enjoy these old aircraft here is a really nice YouTube Channel to follow. Warbird

Another nice Channel to follow would be this one Battle Guide

 

[DaveM]

Australian War Memorial: ‘Big Things In Store’

Dion Makowski of Aviation Report Down Under

On Sunday, September 2, 2023, the Australian War Memorial’s Mitchell Annexe (The Treloar Centre) opened its repurposed industrial buildings to the public, allowing viewing of the reserve collection of airframes, engines, and many, many other artifacts undergoing restoration, or stored, pending future integration into the Memorial’s displays. Dion Makowski of Aviation Report Down Under brings you imagery of this opportunity, a detailed report is also presented on the main Aviation Report page here.

Click on the images for full caption details.​

The Curtiss P-40E Kittyhawk Mk.1A A29-133 “S / Polly” is a war veteran of the New Guinea campaign, flying with No 75 Squadron RAAF. [Photo Dion Makowski, Aviation Report Down Under]

The Messerschmitt Bf109G-6AS/G-6, W/Nr 163824, seen sans propeller, head-on. This is another of the very original aircraft in the collection, wearing entirely original paint. [Photo Dion Makowski, Aviation Report Down Under]

Many of the illustrated exhibits are airframes removed during the Memorial’s current refurbishment, including the Lancaster and Kittyhawk, while others have been in store for some time. The proximity of some airframes, such as the Bf 109 and Me 163, and the slightly out-of-place civil registered Parer & McIntosh 1919 air race DH-9, as well as unrestored Japanese exhibits illustrate some changes to AWM collections policy over 80 years.​

The open days, normally held annually late in the year are definitely worth a visit – future open days will be advertised on the memorial’s website. Dion Makowski​

Rolls Royce Merlin and propeller from Canadian-built CanCar Hurricane 5715 of the RCAF, in which Australian pilot R Bellhouse was killed. Engine recovered from Gaspereau Lake, Nova Scotia. [Photo Dion Makowski, Aviation Report Down Under]

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[DaveM]

Final Flight: The Story of a WWII Corsair

On Thursday, September 14 the Intrepid Museum hosted a press preview of its newest permanent exhibition, Final Flight: The Story of a WWII Corsair. On March 18, 1945, Loren Isley, a young, newly-married naval aviator flew from the USS Intrepid on his first combat mission. Unfortunately, it would also be his last. He and his F4U-1D Corsair were shot down near the city of Saiki on Japan’s southern main island of Kyushu. Fifty years later, a Japanese fisherman found what is believed to be the remnants of his aircraft.​

Collection of the Intrepid Museum

In 2016, Japanese officials returned the Corsair fragments to the U.S. Navy, and they were brought home to Intrepid earlier this year. A dedicated team of Intrepid Museum curators worked diligently to repatriate and preserve the Corsair’s pieces but also embarked on an extensive research journey into the pilot’s history. Their investigation led them to discover the existence of Loren’s nephew, Dale, via Ancestry.com, thus forging a connection between the Museum, the Isley family, and the history hidden within these artifacts.​

The F4U Corsair was one of the most advanced combat aircraft of its day. Intrepid received its first Corsairs in 1944, and the aircraft then became a core part of Intrepid’s air group during the Battle of Okinawa in 1945. The aircraft was shot down into the Pacific Ocean after it was ordered to strike a naval base near Japan. The new exhibit features fragments from the plane found 78 years later, rare photographs, and an immersive installation.

Through artifacts, photos, and a visually engaging installation of the aircraft’s engine and a section of the wing, this exhibit tells the story of the discovery of the aircraft, its young pilot, and the scientific and technical process of preserving artifacts from underwater environments.​

Photo via the Intrepid Museum

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[Vector]

I would really enjoy flying an OV10!

 

[DaveM]

CAF Airbase Georgia Surprises WWII Pilot With a Visit From a P-51 Mustang

The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Airbase Georgia flew its P-51 Mustang fighter to Florida recently to help surprise a World War II veteran and former P-51 pilot who was celebrating his 100th birthday. Bill MacClarence, or Mac, flew Mustangs out of Fowlmere, England, with the 339th Fighter Group in 1944-1945 at the age of 21.​

Bill “Mac” MacClarence with CAF pilot John Currenti and crew chief Rodney Higginbotham

A small group of friends and family had gathered at the general aviation terminal of Naples Airport, but MacClarence had no idea what was about to pull up on the tarmac. The sound of the engine was unmistakable for this seasoned veteran, and he was delighted to see a P-51 pull up and cut its engine. It was a true visit back in time for the WWII Distinguished Flying Cross recipient.

MacClarence was a freshman at Columbia University when he and several students enlisted in 1942, shortly after the Pearl Harbor attack. After training, he was sent to Fowlmere as a replacement P-51 pilot. He became experienced in bomber escort and ground strafing, and even encountered a German Me-262 jet in his P-51, which he named “The Iron Bird”.​

He ended up flying 36 missions before the end of the war. He returned to earn his degree in engineering from Columbia and worked for General Foods, retiring in Martha’s Vineyard, Mass., and Naples. He summed up his wartime experience by telling a writer, “To have had the opportunity to fly a P-51 is probably one of the most memorable experiences any pilot could have.”

“One of the key missions of the CAF and Airbase Georgia is to honor those who gave so much to save the world for democracy,” said Airbase leader Joel Perkins. “Mac MacClarence is one of the many who deserve to be considered among ‘the Greatest Generation.’ We were honored to provide this nostalgic memory for such an outstanding veteran and pilot.”

About the CAF Airbase Georgia Warbird Museum
CAF Airbase Georgia, based in Peachtree City, Ga., was founded in 1987. The Airbase is one of the largest units of the Commemorative Air Force (CAF). The group maintains and flies six vintage military aircraft including a P-51 Mustang, an FG-1D Corsair, an SBD Dauntless, and a P-63A Kingcobra. The Airbase, composed of more than 500 volunteer members, is a founding partner of the Georgia WWII Heritage Trail launched in 2021. The Airbase is part of the CAF, a non-profit, tax-exempt organization that relies on contributions of time and funds to conduct its mission. For more information, go to CAF Airbase Georgia.​

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[hemibee]

I guess it is not really Warbird News but I'm scheduled to work communications at the 2023 Wings Over Houston Airshow. Hopefully there will be plenty volunteers and I won't have to work very much of it and can enjoy all the Warbirds, old and new.

 

[DaveM]

The Evolution of Military Aviation: Skyward Bound

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

From the first flight of the Wright brothers in 1903 to the sophisticated jet fighters of today, aviation has revolutionized the way humanity interacts with the skies. One of the most significant arenas where the impact of aviation is felt most strongly is in the military. Military aviation has not only changed the dynamics of warfare but also has influenced geopolitical strategies and international relations. Just as games of chance have evolved and found new audiences through platforms like top Australian online casino, military aviation too has seen its tactics, technology, and purpose evolve over time.​

Birth of Military Aviation​

The inception of military aviation can be traced back to World War I. Initially, planes were primarily used for reconnaissance, helping armies gather intelligence about enemy positions. However, as the war progressed, the potential of aerial combat and bombing became evident. The early fighters, armed with machine guns and rudimentary bomb systems, brought a new dimension to warfare, allowing armies to strike behind enemy lines and adding a layer of aerial defense.

World War II: The Game Changer

If World War I introduced the world to the possibilities of military aviation, World War II solidified its importance. With the development of faster, more maneuverable fighters, and the introduction of heavy bombers, air superiority became a critical aspect of military strategy. The bombing campaigns over Europe, including the Blitz over Britain and the Allied bombing of Germany, showcased the destructive potential of military aviation. Furthermore, the use of aircraft carriers allowed for global reach, with battles like Midway underscoring the strategic importance of naval aviation.

Jet Age and Beyond

The post-WWII era saw the dawn of the jet age. With the advent of jet propulsion, aircraft became faster, reaching supersonic speeds. This evolution in speed and agility led to the development of air-to-air missiles and advanced radar systems, shifting aerial combat dynamics. The Cold War era saw the development of strategic bombers capable of carrying nuclear payloads, emphasizing the deterrent role of military aviation.

Modern conflicts have seen the rise of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones. These remotely piloted systems can conduct surveillance, reconnaissance, and even precision strikes without risking a pilot.

Military Aviation and Geopolitics

Military aviation has played a pivotal role in shaping geopolitics. The ability to project power through aerial dominance or strategic bombing has influenced international relations, treaties, and alliances. The Cuban Missile Crisis, for instance, was intensified by U2 reconnaissance flights discovering missile sites. The establishment of no-fly zones, air patrols, and recent skirmishes involving air forces are testimony to the ongoing significance of military aviation in geopolitical strategies.

Parallel Evolution: From Military Aviation to Online Platforms

Just as military aviation has seen remarkable progress over the decades, other sectors have witnessed similar evolution. Traditional games found a new life online, reaching global audiences, introducing new game mechanics, and revolutionizing user experiences. Similar to how military aviation adopted new technologies and strategies to stay ahead, online platforms too have embraced innovations for better user engagement. These innovations are often highlighted on an author page, showcasing the creators’ contributions to the digital landscape.

In conclusion, the trajectory of military aviation from rudimentary biplanes to stealth fighters and drones is a testament to human ingenuity and adaptability. Each era brought forth challenges, and with them, technological advancements that forever changed the face of aerial warfare. As the future unfolds, one can only anticipate the new horizons both military aviation and digital platforms will explore.​

“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]

B-29 Doc History Restored Tour to Land in Tucson, AZ

PRESS RELEASE

B-29 Doc, one of only two B-29 Superfortress aircraft out of nearly 4,000 that were built during World War II and still airworthy and flying today, will bring its B-29 Doc History Restored Tour to Tucson, AZ, Sept. 27-Oct. 30. B-29 Doc will arrive at Tucson International Airport on Tuesday, Sept. 26, and will be available for ground and cockpit tours beginning Wednesday, Sept. 27 through Sunday, Oct. 1. Doc will be hosted by Atlantic Aviation while in Tucson.​

Photo courtesy of Doc’s Friends

BOOK YOUR SEAT ON HISTORY TODAY!​

B-29 Doc Flight Experience Rides will be available Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 30 and Oct. 1, at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. both days. Tickets are on sale now! Click here to book your seat on History!

The hours for B-29 Doc ground and cockpit tours will be:

• Wednesday, Thursday & Friday, Sept. 27-29: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (last cockpit tour ticket will be sold at 3 p.m.)
• Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 30-Oct. 1: 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. (The last cockpit tour ticket will be sold at 3 p.m.)

Tickets for ground and cockpit tours can be purchased on the day of the event at the gate. Admission for tours will be $10 per person or $20 per family.​

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[DaveM]

Time Capsule Corsair

During our recent visit to the Fleet Air Arm Museum in Yeovilton, England, we had the opportunity to see an ultra-rare variant of Chance-Vought’s mighty Corsair. This, for us, was worth the price of admission alone. Much like works of art, historic aircraft also require conservation, preservation and/or restoration too. Such efforts, of course, require dedication and significant work, not to mention financial investment, to ensure the continued vitality of the past. Commensurate with those attributes, significant expertise and a conservation culture are also required. Too often, rare or even unique aircraft have simply been restored and repainted without consideration for their historical accuracy. In most cases, such aircraft also receive a shiny new coat of paint, with the original surface finish removed entirely from the airframe – unwittingly (or not) destroying a significant aspect of the exhibit’s historical authenticity. Thankfully, this was not the case for Corsair Mk.IV KD431 – a true time capsule – and the only former Fleet Air Arm example to have survived in complete condition.​

Built in 1944 by Goodyear as a Corsair Mk.IV (roughly equivalent to an FG-1A) KD431 initially received a US Navy Bureau Number (BuNo.14862). The aircraft was shipped to the UK in November 1944 for Royal Navy service and retired in December 1945. It then became an instructional airframe at the Cranfield College of Aeronautics until 1963, when it joined the Fleet Air Arm Museum’s collection, a move made possible by the Historic Aircraft Preservation Society. The aircraft had received an overpaint at the time to make it presentable for display, but thankfully none of the original paint underneath was removed. In the year 2000, the decision was made to remove this 1963-dated coat of paint to reveal the aircraft’s original wartime finish, a task completed in 2005 to magnificent effect.

This Corsair, following a painstaking effort to remove an inauthentic, 1960s-era paint scheme, now appears in its original, factory-applied livery, dating from July 1944. It is likely the only Corsair in the world which still retains its original surface finish for all to see. For those wishing to learn more about this conservation process, we highly recommend obtaining a copy of Corsair KD431: Time Capsule Fighter, a masterful book on the project written by the man who orchestrated it, David Morris, Curator of Aircraft at the Fleet Air Arm Museum. The book describes, in elegant detail, every step in the aircraft’s conservation – it is a fascinating read! That being said, we hope you enjoy the accompanying photos (and captions) along with the video clip we filmed during our visit.​

To gain appreciation for the philosophy behind this Corsair’s conservation, one need only read the book’s description. It neatly explains the spark which drove the museum to embark upon this groundbreaking endeavor.

“Would you ‘restore’ an expensive piece of antique furniture by stripping it down to the bare wood, and then re-coating it in a high-gloss polyurethane varnish? If you did, then at a stroke you’ve probably wiped its value from several thousand pounds down to a few hundred and destroyed its original character. The same principle holds good for vintage aircraft restoration and preservation. At the Fleet Air Arm Museum, Yeovilton is a rare Second World War Chance Vought Corsair fighter aircraft. To fully understand the aircraft and unravel the myths and truths surrounding KD431, an enormous research task lay ahead. Thousands of hours of painstaking detail work were required to achieve what initially looked like an impossible goal. The skill and patience of all those concerned were eventually rewarded, but not necessarily with the results expected or, at times, wished for. The end result was the revealing of what is probably the last truly original Corsair fighter left in existence and one of very few Second World War aircraft displayed in such original condition.”​

To purchase the book Corsair KD431: Time Capsule Fighter, click HERE.​

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[DaveM]

CAF Fleet, The Current Status

In the last issue of The Dispatcher, the magazine of the Commemorative Air Force, Alan Brooks who is the Chairman of the American Airpower Heritage Flying Museum board shared the latest status of the CAF fleet; as well, as an interesting overview of the organization’s Standard Operating Procedures Aircraft Acquisition and Assignment Process. We thought our readers would enjoy learning about this important aspect of the world’s largest flying museum.

All aircraft in the CAF’s fleet, aka the Ghost Squadron, are owned and operated by the American Airpower Heritage Flying Museum (AAHFM), often called the “Flying Museum.” The AAHFM is responsible for acquiring aircraft, monitoring aircraft statuses, assigning aircraft to units, and deciding to sell aircraft, if necessary.​

Photo by Doug Rozendaal

THE ACQUISITION PROCESS

When the CAF buys an airplane, it is often the result of a concerted effort by a dedicated Airbase or Unit. To purchase and operate this new aircraft, the Airbase or Unit must 1) Provide and submit a business plan for the aircraft both financially and operationally, 2) Submit a request for assignment for the acquisition, and 3) Raise the funds to pay for the new aircraft. The AAHFM reviews the proposal and, if acceptable, approves the purchase. In this case, the assignment process occurs simultaneously, with the AAHFM approving the assignment.

Airbases/Units may not purchase aircraft without Headquarters approval. Headquarters executes the purchase after an acceptable pre-purchase inspection and assigns the airplane to the Unit if approval is granted. The Unit coordinates with the Chief Aviation Officer to schedule the pre-purchase inspection. Many aircraft also join the CAF fleet because they are donated by generous supporters.

THE ASSIGNMENT PROCESS

The assignment process varies according to how the airplane becomes available. Typically, this occurs in one of three ways: 1) Reassignment of an aircraft that is already in the fleet, 2) Assignment of an aircraft to a unit in which that unit purchases said aircraft, or 3) Donation by an individual or organization of an aircraft to the CAF.

REASSIGNMENT OF EXISTING INVENTORY

On the CAF operations website, www.cafoperations.org, under the resource center link, you can see a list of aircraft currently up for an assignment. Any Unit can submit a request for the assignment of an available airplane. The AAHFM considers and reviews all Unit requests.

AIRCRAFT DONATION

While the AAHFM strives to respect the donor’s wishes, aircraft assignments for aircraft donated by supporters follow the same process outlined above. All donations are unconditional and cannot require a mandatory assignment. If an aircraft is donated without any specific donor wish, the aircraft is added to the list of aircraft up for assignment on the CAF operations website at www.cafoperations.org/aircraft-assignments.​

The CAF Airbase Georgia members posing in front of the unit’s hangar. The P-47 is currently being restored, click HERE for the recent updates. Photo by Charles Burcher

In the same article, Brooks provided an overview of the current status of the CAF fleet.

Total*: 176
Flying: 135
Storage: 1
Maintenance: 14
Restoration: 26
*As of September 18, 2023

Aircraft Currently in Restoration Status

• L-17-Houston Wing • J-4A – 3rd Coast Sqdn • L-17- Minnesota Wing • F8F Bearcat – SoCal Wing •AT- 11 – Lobo Wing • P-47N- Airbase Georgia •C-60-Houston Wing • PT-17- Minnesota Wing

• L-5-CAF HO • AT-19-CAF HQ • F-156- SoCal Wing • PBY – Lake Superior Sqdn • SNJ-5- Big Sky Wing • BT-13 (Val) – Tex Hill Wing • PT-17- Airbase Georgia • L-5 – Toledo Wing

• PT-17- DFW Wing • Fw 44-CAF HQ • PT-26–- Airbase Georgia • PT-23- Jayhawk Wing • PT-19- Highland Lakes • PT-17-Utah Wing Sqdn • J-3- NAEC • PT-17- CAF HQ

Aircraft Currently Up for Assignment

• L-3E, N36687 • L-5 Sentinel, N59AF • Fw 44 Stieglitz, N2497

•Fairchild PT-26, N9474H •Fairchild PT-19, N519SH

• AT-19 Reliant, N67227 • R-4B Hoverfly

Aircraft Currently Up for Sale

• C-46 Commando, N53594

•Ju-87 Stuka (replica), N87LL

Aircraft Transferred/Assigned in 2023

• SNJ-4, N224X, Assigned to Music City Wing

For more information about the Commemorative Air Force and its mission, visit www.commemorativeairforce.org​

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[DaveM]

Fleet Air Arm Museum, Representing The Royal Navy in The Air

By Moreno Aguiari

During a recent trip to South West England, I had the opportunity to visit the Fleet Air Arm Museum – thirty years after my first visit as a young man! Located at RNAS Yeovilton, the Fleet Air Arm Museum is one of the largest aviation museums in Europe, celebrating British naval aviation from 1909 to the present.​

With four exhibition halls, over ninety aircraft, more than 2 million records, and 30 thousand artifacts, the Museum is Europe’s largest naval aviation museum. [All photographs by Moreno Aguiari]

In 1963 a small enclosure was created beside the perimeter fence at the Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton, to allow the public to view flying activities on the airfield. One year later, the new Fleet Air Arm Museum, housed in a single hangar, was opened by His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh. It began with just three aircraft, but over the years has grown into a nationally significant collection of over 100 airframes, and many thousands of artifacts, photographs, and archives.

Incorporated into the National Museum of the Royal Navy in 2015, the Fleet Air Arm Museum is now proud to display the heritage of British naval aviation and is a world leader in historic aircraft paint conservation, as well as being home to the UK’s Concorde 002 prototype. [Click on the photographs to reveal the captions.]​

A lot has changed since my last visit, using the best of digital technology, and immersive exhibits like a reproduction of a carrier flight deck. Visitors are transported through 100 years of this unique aviation history, from the pioneering years of the First World War all the way through to the modern HMS Queen Elizabeth carriers.

‘The Aircraft Carrier Experience – Airfield at Sea’ is truly an immersive experience giving visitors the opportunity to experience the flight deck of a working aircraft carrier, and see naval aircraft in their natural environment. The whole hall has been converted into a mock-up of the fleet carrier HMS Ark Royal as it would have appeared in the 1970s, with the addition, also, of older historical aircraft such as the Supermarine Seafire. The visitor is ‘flown’ from Hall 2 ‘onto’ the carrier through a converted (vibrating) Wessex helicopter cabin.

The lineup of aircraft is in chronological order, starting with replica Sopwith Pup N6452, then Supermarine Seafire F.17 SX137, Supermarine Attacker F.1 WA473, de Havilland Sea Vixen FAW.2 XS590, Blackburn Buccaneer S.1 XN957, British Aerospace Sea Harrier FA.2 XZ499 and a McDonnell Douglas Phantom FG.1 XT596 ready to be ‘launched’ off the carrier. The exhibit includes a reproduction of the HMS Ark Royal deck and operations rooms, enhancing the immersive experience for the visitors. [Click on the photographs to reveal the captions.]​

One of the most significant airplanes exhibited at the Fleet Air Arm Museum is the Corsair KD431, an example of aircraft preservation. In 2000, David Morris, the Curator of the museum made a bold decision. The outer paint layer was carefully removed in a process akin to an art restoration, layer by layer, to see if the as-built aircraft scheme could be uncovered, and also the wartime finish, if either remained beneath.

The process, which was meticulously documented, and published in the book ‘Corsair KD431 — The Timecapsule Fighter’ (in two editions) was a mammoth undertaking. The end result revealed what is probably the last truly original Corsair fighter left in existence and one of very few Second World War aircraft displayed in such original condition. We have published a detailed article about this aircraft here.​

The incredibly original Corsair showing not only original paint, but many other historical witness marks as well. [Photograph by Moreno Aguiari]

Hall 4 is dedicated to test flying, with the aircraft exhibited demonstrating how advances in design and technology allowed the British aircraft industry to lead the world up to supersonic flight. Concorde epitomized the glamour of the transatlantic jet age during the 1970s and 1980s, and rightly is remembered as proud achievement in Britain’s (and France’s) aeronautical history. [Click on the photographs to reveal the captions.]​

A rare and historically important aircraft on exhibit, Concorde 002 is the second prototype of this Anglo-French supersonic airliner. She was assembled in Britain and made her maiden flight from the British Aircraft Corporation’s plant at Filton, Bristol, on 9 April 1969, with the first French prototype Concorde 001 flying from Toulouse, France, a month earlier on 2 March 1969. On completion of her test program, she arrived at RNAS Yeovilton in July 1976 and was placed on permanent display at the Fleet Air Arm Museum. The aircraft interior is open to the public.​

Visitors can see into (but, for safety reasons, not enter) the restoration workshop between Hall 3 and Hall 4. In 2023 the projects currently underway are a Fairey Barracuda torpedo bomber and a Gloster Sea Gladiator biplane fighter.

Not a single complete Barracuda aircraft exists today, but this remarkable project, to bring a Barracuda back, has been underway since the 1970s. Led by the Fleet Air Arm Museum, the ambitious mission is to reconstruct a complete (non-flying) Barracuda aircraft. The Barracuda Live: The Big Rebuild presentation opens in September 2023 , showcasing Barracuda DP872’s reconstruction in the museum’s new Arthur Kimberley Viewing Gallery. To learn more and support this particular project click HERE.​

Elements of the Fairy Barracuda project, forming the cockpit and center section. [Photograph by Moreno Aguiari]

With four exhibition halls, over ninety aircraft, more than 2 million records, and 30 thousand artifacts, the Museum is Europe’s largest naval aviation museum and definitely a must for any aviation enthusiast. The Fleet Air Arm Museum is a charity that relies on funding from many sources to preserve the rich history of the Royal Navy. To learn how to support the museum, click HERE.​

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[DaveM]

Last F-14 Tomcat in US Navy Service Now on Display at The Cradle of Aviation Museum

On September 14, the Cradle of Aviation Museum inaugurated the outdoor F-14 Tomcat display with the participation of local authorities and former naval aviators. “Felix 101,” the last F-14 Tomcat in US Navy service, moved to the museum in Uniondale over the summer of 2022 and its restoration was completed later in October.​

F-14D Tomcat BuNo 164603 is number 711 of the 712 Tomcats built, and the last Navy Tomcat to ever fly. Delivered to the Navy on May 29, 1992, it completed its 14 years of service with VF-31, the last F-14 squadron. This proud aircraft was returned “home” to Long Island on October 4, 2006, to become an enduring symbol of the spirit of innovation and teamwork, and to serve as a lasting reminder of the importance of what Northrop Grumman employees do every day to provide for our men and women in uniform. Felix 101 has been parked at 600 Grumman Rd. West since 2008 when Grumman’s successor, Northrop Grumman Corp., and the Grumman Retiree Club, a former employees group, created a monument.​

Felix 101 on take-off. Photo by Mike Armstrong

The museum is already home to the third F-14 ever built. That plane, a pre-production model which was primarily used for determining structural loads and flight characteristics under extreme conditions. This Tomcat in museum’s collection is the third pre-production aircraft built having first flown on December 28, 1971 at the Grumman Flight Test Facility in Calverton, New York. Primarily used for determining structural loads and flight characteristics under many extreme conditions, No. 3 last flew in 1990. The museum obtained this aircraft in 1995 and moved it across the road from Calverton in one piece. Read more about the story of F-14A, Aircraft No. 3, BuNo. 157982.​

The Cradle of Aviation Museum has on display two Tomcats. One is F-14A, Number 3, the oldest surviving Tomcat on the planet. Photo via William Barto

For the event on September 14, local authorities included Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, Nassau County Comptroller Elaine Phillips, and the town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino. Retired Naval officer, aviator, test pilot, and aeronautical engineer, Captain Robert ‘Hoot’ Gibson and Cynthia Snodgrass, the widow of the esteemed former U.S. Navy aviator and F-14 pilot Dale Snodgrass were representing the Tomcat community. Vic Beck, Communications Director at Northrop Grumman and retired Rear Admiral, gave a speech for the occasion. Mr. Beck is the individual credited by Mr. Parton with the idea to relocate the plane to the Cradle of Aviation Museum.

The Cradle of Aviation Museum is home to one of the largest collections of aircraft and spacecraft in the world, arranged in eight galleries that take you through over 100 years of air and space history. The museum is also home to Long Island’s only Giant Screen Dome Theater. The Cradle is located at Charles Lindbergh Blvd. on Museum Row in Garden City. For more information, please call 516-572-4111 or visit our website at www.cradleofaviation.org.​

Left to Right: Andrew Parton (Museum President), Joseph Saladino (Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor), Bruce Blakeman (Nassau County Executive), Cynthia Snodgrass (Widow of the esteemed former U.S. Navy Aviator Dale Snodgrass), Captain Robert ‘Hoot’ Gibson (Retired Naval Officer, Aviator, Test pilot, and Aeronautical Engineer), Vick Beck (Communications Director at Northrop Grumman and retired Rear Admiral), Elaine Phillips (Nassau County Comptroller), Penny Kokkinides (Chairperson of the Cradle of Aviation Board and Chief Administrative Officer for InnovaCare Health).

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[DaveM]

Last Chance for a B-17 Ride at The Air Zoo This Year

PRESS RELEASE

Experience a multi-sensory and immersive adventure by taking a ride on a WWII B-17 Bomber this Saturday, September 23rd at the Air Zoo located on 6151 Portage Road in Portage, MI just south of the Kalamazoo/Battle Creek Airport. This will be the last opportunity this year for those in the Kalamazoo area to take a ride on the iconic WWII aircraft. With only three flying B-17s in North America, this opportunity is truly a rare chance to experience history in flight. The B-17 Flying Fortress was a heavy four-engine bomber in the US Army Air Force during WWII and was noted for its dangerous daylight missions over Germany.​

The flight is a 30-minute experience and costs $525.00 per person. Once airborne, passengers are able to move to other positions in the aircraft including the nose, flight deck, bomb bay, radio room, and waist gunnery section. Celebrate flight with this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Rides occur from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm and you can reserve a seat by ordering online at Historic Plane Rides | Yankee Air Museum | Southeast Michigan or walk up to see if any seats are available.​

Proposed new home for the Yankee Air Museum in the preserved portion of the Willow Run Plant.

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]

B-25 Miss Mitchell to Join B-29 Doc For Rides And Tours in Wichita in October

PRESS RELEASE

B-25 Miss Mitchell from the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Minnesota Wing will make a tour stop in Wichita at the B-29 Doc Hangar, Education and Visitors Center, Oct. 4-8, 2023. The B-25 arrival and corresponding tour stop in Wichita will coincide with the B-29 Doc WSU Tech Pull a Plane event, Saturday, Oct. 7. In addition to B-25 ride flight experiences on Oct. 7 during the Pull a Plane event, Miss Mitchell will be available for ride flights beginning Oct. 5 through Oct. 8.​

Photo by Doug Glover of Fox3 Photography

“The connection between the B-25 and the B-29 in our nation’s history is significant when it comes to World War II and the fight to defend freedom in the face of oppression,” said Josh Wells, B-29 Doc executive director. “The stories of our nation’s heroes from the Greatest Generation come alive when these historic warbirds allow people to climb inside the aircraft and get a hands-on and up-close look at the machines that helped deliver victory for the Allied Forces during the war.”

B-25 Miss Mitchell will arrive in Wichita on Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2023, and will be available for ride flight experiences October 5-8. B-29 Doc Flight Experiences will be available on Sunday, Oct. 8.

In addition, to ride flight experiences through the week, both aircraft will be involved in the Pull a Plane fundraiser to benefit B-29 Doc and the WSU Tech Foundation. While Doc will be the main aircraft pulled by teams during the event, children ages 7-17 will be able to sign up to pull the B-25.

“We are excited to be a part of the event and to be partnering with the B-29 Doc again; there’s so much history to share,” said Amy Lauria the CAF Minnesota Wing’s development officer. “We look forward to helping to share the history of Miss Mitchell and her crew with people in Wichita.”​

Photo courtesy of Doc’s Friends

“Miss Mitchell” is a pristine example of what a dedicated group of volunteers can accomplish. Donated to the Minnesota Wing in the 1980’s, volunteers immediately began a complete ground-up restoration of this versatile medium bomber. The B-25 placed itself in World War II history books on April 18, 1942 when 16 of the medium-range bombers launched from the deck of an aircraft carrier in the Pacific Ocean and bombed mainland Japan. Led by Lt. Col. James “Jimmy” Doolittle, America had begun to turn the tables on the Japanese. The B-25J “Miss Mitchell” served in the 310th Bomb Group, 57th Bomb Wing of the 12th Air Force in North Africa and Italy completing over 130 missions. Its legacy of no crew fatalities during all of its missions was a rare accomplishment. Prior to taking command of the 8th Air Force in Europe in 1944, the 12th Air Force was under the command of then Brigadier General Jimmy Doolittle. After a 12 year restoration by the Minnesota Wing of the Commemorative Air Force, Miss Mitchell took her first flight on April 18, 1992 ~ exactly 50 years to the day of the daring Doolittle raid.​

BOOK YOUR SEATS ON HISTORY NOW!​

Ride flight tickets for both aircraft are on sale now and available via these links:

B-29 Doc: www.b29doc.com/rides

B-25 Miss Mitchell: October 5-8, 2023 B-25 in Wichita, KS with the B-29 Doc (cafmn.org)

“We are excited to partner with the CAF’s Minnesota Wing and its B-25 Miss Mitchell. Both organizations share the same mission of honoring our nation’s military heroes, both past and present, and ensuring the legacy of the Greatest Generation lives on for generations to come,” Wells said.​

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About Doc’s Friends and B-29 Doc
Doc’s Friends, Inc., is a 501c3 non-profit board managing the operation of the Boeing B-29 Superfortress known as Doc. Doc is a B-29 Superfortress and one of 1,644 manufactured in Wichita during World War II. It is one of only two remaining B-29s that are still airworthy and flying today. The mission of Doc’s Friends is to HONOR the men and women who sacrificed so much for the freedom of others, including those who designed, built, maintained and flew the B-29 during and after WWII. CONNECT people with the rich heritage of the B-29 and allow aviation enthusiasts to experience the thrill of a B-29 up close. EDUCATE today’s and future generations on the contributions of the Greatest Generation during wartime. For more information, visit www.b29doc.com

About the B-29 Doc History Restored Tour and B-29 Doc Flight Experience
Each year, B-29 Doc travels to cities across the United States to allow aviation enthusiasts a chance to B-29 Doc up-close and personal. Doc’s annual tour mission includes an average of 100 flight hours, beginning in early April and spanning through the summer until late October. Tour stops include ground and flight deck tours, as well as B-29 Doc Flight Experiences. The B-29 Doc Flight Experience will last approximately 90 minutes and include a 30-minute ride. Prior to takeoff, passengers will experience a crew briefing and learn more about the history of the B-29 and the role it played in U.S. history. Passengers will also get to hear and see the sights and sounds of engine starts and run-ups prior to takeoff.

About the Commemorative Air Force Minnesota Wing
The Commemorative Air Force Minnesota Wing was formed in 1971. The Minnesota Wing was the very first charter unit of the national headquarters wing of the Commemorative Air Force and operated as a maintenance support arm to help the CAF’s mission and its ever growing fleet of rare aircraft. Today, the Commemorative Air Force Minnesota Wing is home to six aircraft, a large motor pool fleet, and a unique collection of World War II artifacts that are on display. For more information, visit www.cafmn.org.​

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[DaveM]

CAF Logo Becomes Official Texas State Symbol

Via CAF Dispatch

The Texas State Library and Archives Commission added the Commemorative Air Force logo as a Texas state symbol this month to their digital archive. State symbols have been designated since 1901 when the bluebonnet was chosen as the official flower of Texas by the 27th Legislature. The list now numbers 76 symbols across a wide variety of categories.

The CAF was formally named the official air force of Texas on June 14, 1989, when Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 114, 71st Legislature, was signed into effect by then-Governor William Clements.

The Commemorative Air Force was originally known as the Confederate Air Force. Following a membership vote in 2001, the name of the organization was changed to the Commemorative Air Force, effective on January 1, 2002.​

CAF Founder Lloyd Nolen taken by CAF Col Phil Makanna

For more information about the Commemorative Air Force and its mission, visit www.commemorativeairforce.org​

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[DaveM]

Fashion Takes the Runway at The Museum of Flight Sept. 30

PRESS RELEASE

Fashion District NW and The Museum of Flight have partnered for Fashion in Flight, a red carpet event showcasing the most distinctive designers from around the Northwest. The Sept. 30 fashion show offers a live DJ, designer booths, red carpet photos plus an afterparty. The event is from 6-11 p.m. and open to ages 10+. Attendees should dress fashionably. All are encouraged to show off their most creative and courageous glam wear as there will be red carpet interviews. Following the fashion show the runway yields to the dance floor and an afterparty ignites with the designers and models.

Designers include Chance Watt, Dovi Seattle, Gustavo Apiti Couture, Rossario George, Venturini Couture, Walace Style.

Tickets:

VIP: $80/person (Includes Front Row seating, free drink ticket, free parking)
2nd & 3rd Row: $50/person (Includes free parking). Ticket prices will increase by $5 if purchased at the door.

Doors open – 6 p.m.

Fashion show – 6:45 p.m.

Afterparty – 8:45 p.m.

Partners include Unicorn Distillery, Westland Distillery, Fremont Brewing, Seattle Cider Company, and Tattoo Girl Wine.

About The Museum of Flight:

Founded in 1965, the independent, nonprofit Museum of Flight is one of the largest air and space museums in the world, serving 600,000 visitors. The Museum’s collection includes more than 160 historically significant airplanes and spacecraft, from the first fighter plane (1914) to today’s 787 Dreamliner. Attractions at the 23-acre, 5-building Seattle campus include the original Boeing Company factory, the NASA Space Shuttle Trainer, Air Force One, Concorde, Lockheed Blackbird and Apollo Moon rockets. In addition to the Seattle campus adjacent to King County International Airport, the Museum also has its 3-acre Restoration Center and Reserve Collection at Paine Field in Everett (not currently open to the public).

With a foundation of aviation history, the Museum is also a hub of news and dialogue with leaders in the emerging field of private spaceflight ventures. The Museum’s aviation and space library and archives are the largest on the West Coast. More than 150,000 individuals are served annually by the Museum’s onsite and outreach educational programs. The Museum of Flight is accredited by the American Association of Museums, and is an Affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution.

The Museum of Flight is located at 9404 E. Marginal Way S., Seattle, Exit 158 off Interstate 5 on Boeing Field halfway between downtown Seattle and Sea-Tac Airport. The Museum is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Museum admission for adults is $26. Youth 5 through 17 are $18, youth 4 and under are free. Seniors 65 and over $22. Groups of ten or more: $20 per adult, $13 per youth, $18 per senior. Admission is free from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. on the first Thursday of every month. Parking is always free. There is a full lunch menu café operated by McCormick & Schmick’s. For general Museum information, please call 206-764-5720 or visit www.museumofflight.org​

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[DaveM]

Deadliest Most Recent Fighter Aircraft in the World

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

In recent times, the sky has become a battleground where nations showcase their strength through deadly fighter aircraft. These aircraft are like birds of prey, soaring high in the sky and ready to strike at a moment’s notice. Let us explore some of the most dangerous fighter jets in operation around the world and the conflicts where they have been used.​

F-22 Raptor — USA​

An F-22 Raptor and an P-51 Mustang perform a twilight show during the Wings Over Golden Isles Air Show in Brunswick, Ga., March 24, 2017. The duo performed a Heritage Flight, which is a performance of current fighter and attack aircraft flying with World War II, Korea and Vietnam era fighter aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Kimberly Nagle)

The F-22 Raptor, made by the United States, is one of the deadliest jets in the sky. It is a stealth fighter, which means it can avoid enemy radars. This jet first saw action in the Syrian conflict, where it played a vital role in air strikes against targets in Syria. With unmatched speed and agility, the F-22 can dominate any aerial battle. It carries advanced weapons that can destroy targets both in the air and on the ground. Its radar system is very powerful, helping it to spot enemies from far away.​

Su-57 — Russia​

Russia’s Su-57 is a modern marvel of aviation technology. It is a fifth-generation fighter, meaning it has the latest features like stealth and advanced avionics. It was used in Syria for a short period, where it was tested in real combat situations. This jet has powerful engines that allow it to fly at very high speeds. It carries a range of modern weapons to strike at enemy targets. It also has a radar system that can track many targets at once, giving it an edge in battle.​

J-20 — China​

J20

China’s J-20 is a recent entry into the world of elite fighter jets. It is a stealth aircraft, designed to avoid being detected by enemy radars. This fighter jet is believed to have been used in the border conflicts between China and India, showcasing its capabilities in a high-altitude environment. The J-20 has an impressive range, allowing it to strike targets far from its home base. It carries a variety of weapons, including missiles that can shoot down enemy planes. Its design focuses on stealth, helping it to avoid detection as it carries out its missions.​

Rafale — France​

Dassault ‘Rafale’ – French Navy

The Rafale, made in France, is a versatile fighter that can carry out a wide range of missions. It played a significant role in the Libyan conflict in 2011, where it conducted airstrikes against Libyan targets. With a design that emphasizes maneuverability and power, the Rafale can take on many different roles in battle. It can carry a heavy load of weapons, making it a deadly opponent in any conflict. Its radar system is among the best in the world, helping it to find and track enemies with great accuracy.​

F-35 Lightning II — USA​

Italy has so far taken delivery of 16 of the 60 F-35s (Air Force only) it plans to acquire, with two currently involved in pilot training in the U.S. and the remaining 14 based with the Air Force’s 32nd Wing at Amendola.Photo by Troupe Azzurra/AMI

Another deadly jet from the United States is the F-35 Lightning II. This stealth fighter has been used in various conflicts, including battles against ISIS in Iraq and Syria. It is known for its advanced technology and ability to carry out different types of missions. The F-35 has a powerful radar system and advanced sensors that give it a full view of the battlefield. It can carry a wide range of weapons, making it a formidable force in the sky. Its stealth features help it to avoid enemy radars, giving it the element of surprise in attacks.​

Eurofighter Typhoon — Europe​

On 16 December 2005, the F-2000 Typhoon reached initial operational capability (IOC) with the Italian Air Force (Aeronautica Militare)

The Eurofighter Typhoon, a European creation, has been part of many conflicts around the world. It played a crucial role in Libya, working alongside other jets to carry out air strikes. This jet is known for its speed and agility, making it a tough opponent in aerial battles. The Typhoon can carry a heavy load of weapons, including air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles. Its radar system is very advanced, allowing it to spot enemies from a great distance. It is a formidable force in the sky, ready to defend its territory at a moment’s notice.

In a world where conflicts can erupt at any time, these fighter jets stand as guardians in the sky, ready to protect their nations. They are equipped with the latest technology, giving them the edge in any aerial battle.

War is like a game where it is sometimes a matter of strategy and sometimes a matter of luck. It is like playing a casino and getting a Spinia Bonus because of luck or thanks to your strategic skills. Have a try.

From the stealthy F-22 Raptor to the versatile Rafale, these jets have proven their worth in various conflicts around the world. They carry advanced weapons and have powerful radar systems, making them deadly opponents in the sky.

As technology advances, these fighter jets continue to evolve, becoming even more lethal and capable. They play a crucial role in modern warfare, helping to maintain peace and security in a turbulent world. They are the deadliest birds in the sky, ready to strike with lethal force at any threat.​

“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]

Aviation Heritage Park Ribbon Cutting and Museum Opening

PRESS RELEASE

In the midst of subdivisions and recreation parks in an area of Bowling Green, KY lies a growing education display to aviators of the area. The Aviation Heritage Park was born in 2008 when the first aircraft on display, an F-4D Phantom II flown by Brigadier General Dan Cherry (USAF Ret’d) during Vietnam, arrived at the park and was reassembled for display. The park has since grown to feature several additional military aircraft, each of which honors a different aviator from Kentucky. Continuing that growth, they broke ground on the addition of a museum building in 2018. This building will house additional education displays and provide an extension to the aircraft on display externally.

With the completion of the museum building, Aviation Heritage Park in Bowling Green, Kentucky has announced the appointment of Bob Bubnis as the park and museum’s Executive Director. Bubnis is the former Curator of Collections and Exhibits Manager for the National Corvette Museum. With a proven leader at the helm of the development of the collection inside the recently completed 12,470 square-foot Aviation Heritage Park Museum things are moving forward at full throttle.​

The newly completed 12,470 square-foot Aviation Heritage Park Museum. Photo courtesy of Aviation Heritage Park.

The museum will formally open to the public on Saturday, September 23. The event begins with a flyover by the Tennessee Pterodactyls, a team of highly skilled Swift pilots. The pilots are Don Abbott (Air Force C-130, Special Ops and retired American Airlines 777 pilot), Jerry Kirby (GA and Aerobatic pilot for over 59 years who is in the Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame), Jim Roberts (Air Force U2 pilot, retired American Airlines and retired operations manager at McGhee-Tyson Knoxville airport), and Paul Mercandetti (highly decorated Vietnam medevac pilot and retired US Air Pilot) These guys have over 68,000 flight hours and 212 years of experience amongst them.​

Astronaut Col. Terry Wilcutt (ret), special guest. Photo courtesy of Aviation Heritage Park.

The flyover will be followed by the ribbon cutting, program, and museum tours. Special guests for this event will be astronaut Col. Terry Wilcutt (ret) and RADM James Finney (ret) on behalf of his brother CMDR David Finney. Finney’s and Wilcutt’s stories connected at NASA and are memorialized in the circle of honor with a historic T-38 in Aviation Heritage Park.​

Photo courtesy of Aviation Heritage Park.

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[DaveM]

Savoia Marchetti Historical Group Unveils S.55 Replica

On Saturday, September 23, at the Volandia Museum, the Savoia Marchetti Historical Group unveiled the full size reproduction of the S.55X seaplane used by Italo Balbo in his famous cruise. In 1933, Balbo led a formation of 24 of these flying boats from Orbetello, Italy to Chicago to participate in the Chicago World Fair named “A Century of Progress”, celebrating the centenary of the founding of the city of Illinois.

This static replica was built over the course of seven years in a total of approximately eight thousand person-hours utilizing the original drawings of Alessandro Marchetti. Thanks to the dedication and passion of a core of ten passionate, former workers of Siai Marchetti of Sesto Calende, and some Volandia volunteers, also supported by important local industries, the museum now exhibits the most iconic Italian aircraft of the 1930s, the protagonist of epic undertakings such as the Mediterranean and Atlantic cruises. (Only one earlier type exists, named Jahú in Brazil – we cover it here.)​

This airplane was considered ahead of its time when it first flew, with a twin-hulled, twin-boom configuration, and two engines housed in a nacelle mounted atop a large single wing. One engine was a pusher, the other a tractor.

If the S.55X’s original story is compelling, the same can also be said of the story of the enterprise that took its first steps in 2015 and on whose success very few would bet.

In 2015, on the occasion of the centenary of SIAI Marchetti, a group of aviation enthusiasts from the Savoia Marchetti Historical Group, (SMHG), supported by Volandia and its volunteers, as well as the SIAI Senior Workers Group and local aeronautical industries, began this ambitious project. The project was to commemorate the extraordinary Italian technological, entrepreneurial, and organizational capabilities of the 1930s, and to pay homage by creating an modern recreation to serve as an example of one of the most glorious Italian industries of the past, and one of the most fascinating in the history of world aviation.

The first, research phase involved the collection of documentation to ensure accuracy in the construction of the replica with compiling drawings and technical documentation. The creation of the replica required considerable effort, especially for the construction of the two hulls, which are of considerable size (almost 10 meters in length, and more than 2 meters in width and height) and weight (over 500 kg each).

Now complete, this extraordinary aircraft will remain on display in Volandia where it was built, to demonstrate the value, history, and foresight of the aeronautical industries of the time which were developed there.​

The Savoia Marchetti S.55 was conceived by Alessandro Marchetti (1884-1966), who was a brilliant designer at SIAI, Sesto Calende. It was created in response to a competition announced in 1923 by the Italian Regia Aeronautica (Italian Royal Air Force) for a long-range, over-water torpedo bomber. At that time, it was indeed a very innovative concept, consisting of a twin-engine catamaran style airframe with a monoplane internally cantilevered wing – in an era when competing designs still used the traditional single hull, biplane formula. This configuration had many advantages, as the central position of the torpedo, in addition to being on the center of gravity, also simplified loading with a boat positioned between the two hulls. The position of the engines, mounted on struts above the wing, also offered advantages, keeping them away from the water during take-off and alighting. Of wooden construction, the flying boat was also easily dismantled into major component sections to facilitate transport or maintenance.​

July 2023 was the 90th anniversary of the Atlantic Cruise in which Gen. Italo Balbo led 25 Savoia-Marchetti S.55X flying boats on an epic journey from Europe to North America; they took off from Guidonia, Rome on July, 1st 1933 and flew, via the Azores, to New York City.

This modular construction reflected the modernity of its conception, in line with the most innovative techniques emerging at the time in other industries. Furthermore, the wing was made watertight, and was thus practically unsinkable in the event of ditching in rough seas.

This innovation meant the design was not immediately appreciated by the military, perplexed by such a revolutionary project, so SIAI had to find its first customers in the civil arena. The spacious hull interiors enabled the type’s use on passenger services on Mediterranean routes to the Middle East and North Africa from Italy. Subsequently, after eliminating teething problems, the new seaplane was equipped with more powerful engines and was adopted by the Regia Aeronautica, where it constituted the standard equipment of the maritime bombing units from 1929, remaining in service to 1937.

But the true fame of the S.55 – considered the most famous Italian aircraft in the world between the two wars – is not due to its service as a torpedo bomber or as an airliner, but rather to the great ‘raids’ or long distance cruses carried out between 1927 and 1933. First came the solo Atlantic crossings of Francesco de Pinedo and Juan de Barros in 1927, followed by the great formation cruises of Italo Balbo across the Mediterranean (in 1928-29) and then across the Atlantic in 1930 and 1933. In America, the appearance of a large formation of seaplanes coming from overseas aroused, in addition to the enthusiasm of the Italian emigrant communities, very strong emotions, perhaps comparable only to the landing of man on the moon in 1969. Thanks to its legendary fame, the aircraft also had good export success, obtaining orders in Brazil, Romania, the United States, and the Soviet Union.​

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