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This Day in Aviation History: Howard Hughes Made The First And Only Flight In His H-4 Hercules
by Bryan R. Swopes of This Day in Aviation
Hughes H-4 Hercules NX37602 in San Pedro Bay, 2 November 1947. Two U.S. Navy heavy cruisers and a fleet oiler are in the background. On the horizon is Santa Catalina Island.
90° panorama of the Hughes H-4 Hercules as currently seen in the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum. Photo by Gregg M. Erickson
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by Bryan R. Swopes of This Day in Aviation
On November 2, 1947, Howard Hughes’ Hughes Aircraft Company H-4 Hercules flying boat, NX37602, made its first and only flight at the harbor of Los Angeles, California. The new media called it “The Spruce Goose” due to its strong but lightweight wooden construction. As with the famous de Havilland DH.98 Mosquito fighter-bomber, the use of wood freed up valuable metal alloys during World War II.
Hughes H-4 Hercules NX37602 in San Pedro Bay, 2 November 1947. Two U.S. Navy heavy cruisers and a fleet oiler are in the background. On the horizon is Santa Catalina Island.
Conceived by Henry J. Kaiser, the airplane was initially called the HK-1. It was designed to carry as many as 750 fully-equipped soldiers on transoceanic flights. The H-4 is 218 feet, 8 inches (66.650 meters) long with a wingspan of 320 feet, 11 inches (97.815 meters). Its height is 79 feet, 4 inches (24.181 meters). The Hercules’ designed loaded weight is 400,000 pounds (181,437 kilograms). The H-4 is 218 feet, 8 inches (66.650 meters) long with a wingspan of 320 feet, 11 inches (97.815 meters). Its height is 79 feet, 4 inches (24.181 meters). The Hercules’ designed loaded weight is 400,000 pounds (181,437 kilograms).
The flying boat was powered by eight air-cooled, supercharged 4,362.49-cubic-inch-displacement (71.489 liter) Pratt & Whitney Wasp Major VSB11-G (R-4360-4A) four-row 28-cylinder radial engines with a compression ratio of 7:1. The R-4360-4A had a Normal Power rating of 2,500 horsepower at 2,550 r.p.m. to 5,000 feet (1,524 meters), 2,200 horsepower at 2,550 r.p.m. to 14,500 feet (4,420 meters), and a Takeoff rating of 3,000 horsepower at 2,700 r.p.m. The Military Power rating was also 3,000 horsepower at 2,700 r.p.m., to an altitude of 1,500 feet (457 meters), then decreased to 2,400 horsepower at 2,700 r.p.m. to 13,500 feet (4,115 meters). The engines turned four-bladed Hamilton Standard propellers with diameters of 17 feet, 2 inches (5.232 meters) through a 0.425:1 gear reduction. The R-4360-4A was 8 feet, 0.75 inches (2.457 meters) long, 4 feet, 4.50 inches (1.334 meters) in diameter, and weighed 3,390 pounds (1,538 kilograms).
On its only flight, the H-4 Hercules traveled approximately one mile (1.6 kilometers) at 135 miles per hour (217 kilometers per hour), remaining in ground effect. It never flew again, and its estimated performance was never verified through flight testing.
The airplane is on display at the Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum, McMinnville, Oregon.
The flying boat was powered by eight air-cooled, supercharged 4,362.49-cubic-inch-displacement (71.489 liter) Pratt & Whitney Wasp Major VSB11-G (R-4360-4A) four-row 28-cylinder radial engines with a compression ratio of 7:1. The R-4360-4A had a Normal Power rating of 2,500 horsepower at 2,550 r.p.m. to 5,000 feet (1,524 meters), 2,200 horsepower at 2,550 r.p.m. to 14,500 feet (4,420 meters), and a Takeoff rating of 3,000 horsepower at 2,700 r.p.m. The Military Power rating was also 3,000 horsepower at 2,700 r.p.m., to an altitude of 1,500 feet (457 meters), then decreased to 2,400 horsepower at 2,700 r.p.m. to 13,500 feet (4,115 meters). The engines turned four-bladed Hamilton Standard propellers with diameters of 17 feet, 2 inches (5.232 meters) through a 0.425:1 gear reduction. The R-4360-4A was 8 feet, 0.75 inches (2.457 meters) long, 4 feet, 4.50 inches (1.334 meters) in diameter, and weighed 3,390 pounds (1,538 kilograms).
On its only flight, the H-4 Hercules traveled approximately one mile (1.6 kilometers) at 135 miles per hour (217 kilometers per hour), remaining in ground effect. It never flew again, and its estimated performance was never verified through flight testing.
The airplane is on display at the Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum, McMinnville, Oregon.
90° panorama of the Hughes H-4 Hercules as currently seen in the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum. Photo by Gregg M. Erickson
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Dreaming About Pilot Job: Write an Outstanding Cover Letter for the Aviation Career
“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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“Vintage Aviation News staff did not write this article; the content comes via our partners who wish to help support our website.”
Writing a compelling cover letter for a pilot career is a challenging and demanding task that impacts the first impression of hiring managers. To create a successful document, you must first consider the purpose of making the letter and carefully study the rules and requirements. Most students face many challenges in writing a cover letter for a pilot career. Still, to avoid them and do it right, we recommend reading this article’s end and checking out the step-by-step guide on creating an outstanding pilot cover letter.
How to Write a Successful Cover Letter for a Pilot Career
Most students get stressed when starting to write a strong cover letter for a pilot position. Some students don’t know how to do it right, so potential employers notice them and hire them. In this case, you can send a request “write my paper for me help from EssayShark” and receive quality help in completing this vital task. Professional writers of the online service are ready to complete your order in the shortest possible time and help you achieve your goal. Below, we will provide a guide to writing a cover letter for a pilot career that will help you write a compelling document on your own.
Write a professional headline
The header should contain your contact information, name, residential address, email, and mobile phone number. This information should be placed at the top of the page so that the hiring manager can immediately find ways to contact you and approach you personally.
Please enter a date
After the contact information below, you must indicate the date of sending this cover letter.
Enter the recipient’s address
Next, you should provide the recipient’s address and contact the potential employer, hiring manager, or appropriate person at the airline. If you cannot find a specific name, you can submit a request in the form “Dear company manager…”
Create a strong intro
You need to start your cover letter with a compelling introduction that will grab the hiring manager’s attention and make them want to consider you. Be sure to mention the position you are applying for and indicate the source through which you found the job posting. There is no need to say much in this section. It is essential to keep it short and precise. In addition, you need to show your enthusiasm and share your desire to work for this airline.
Share your skill level
In your cover letter for a pilot position, you must detail your qualifications and previous work experience. Tell the potential employer about your flight training, mention your certifications and diplomas, and introduce the hiring manager to your other capabilities. You can also share information about aircraft and equipment you have experience with and are qualified to operate. In addition, it is essential to indicate the total number of hours you have flown and talk about other achievements in your flying career.
Describe your personal qualities
Also, to create a compelling cover letter for a pilot career, you need to talk about your communication and teamwork skills since, in this field, communication and cooperation with other employees of the company are pretty important. Apart from this, it is essential to mention that you can remain calm in emergencies and take effective action quickly when under pressure. Feel free to share your experiences creating a positive work environment and a safe workplace.
Address the letter to a specific company
Before crafting a cover letter for a pilot position, research the values and mission of the airline you are applying to. Understand their unique requirements and expectations and tailor your document to suit them.
Give examples of your experience
Once you’ve outlined your qualifications, back them up with specific examples from your recent work experience. Tell interesting stories about your achievements that will help you successfully demonstrate your skills and high level of professionalism.
Show your desire to work for this company
Be sure to tell the hiring manager how much you love aviation and how strongly you want to become a pilot with the airline. Try to explain your goals as clearly as possible and mention how they coincide with the mission of this work.
Write professional conclusions
In this section, briefly describe why you are the best candidate for the pilot position and express your desire to answer any additional questions during the interview. Expressing your gratitude to the hiring manager for reviewing your cover letter and indicating that you look forward to hearing back is also essential.
Formally close the letter.
For a pilot career, you should use a professional closing such as “Sincerely” at the end of your cover letter. After this, sign the document to send a paper version. In other cases, you can enter your name.
Edit the document
Once you have completed writing a cover letter for a pilot position, you must carefully check it for grammar—spelling, and punctuation errors. Also, do the correct formatting and ask your colleagues to read the letter to see how it looks through the reader’s eyes. To check grammar and correct errors, you can use the error-checking program, which will detect the presence of shortcomings and offer options for correcting them.
Be brief
A compelling cover letter for a pilot career should be clear and concise. Try to be clear and provide specific facts about the position. It is also essential to use a professional tone and avoid jargon, which can significantly detract from your reputation and overall impression of you.
In conclusion, it is essential to remember that a strong cover letter for a pilot career is an excellent addition to your resume and helps you stand out from other candidates. However, in this document, you should not copy information from your resume but provide new and relevant information about your experience and qualifications. Remember that your cover letter should convey your strong desire to work in aviation and your commitment to professionalism in the cockpit and safety, which is an integral part of the job. For maximum success, it is essential to tailor your letter to the specific airline you are applying to, thereby demonstrating your interest and passion for the pilot position.
“Vintage Aviation News staff did not write this article; the content comes via our partners who wish to help support our website.”
In conclusion, it is essential to remember that a strong cover letter for a pilot career is an excellent addition to your resume and helps you stand out from other candidates. However, in this document, you should not copy information from your resume but provide new and relevant information about your experience and qualifications. Remember that your cover letter should convey your strong desire to work in aviation and your commitment to professionalism in the cockpit and safety, which is an integral part of the job. For maximum success, it is essential to tailor your letter to the specific airline you are applying to, thereby demonstrating your interest and passion for the pilot position.
“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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California’s Airfest 2023
The Mosquito PZ474 in the Saturday morning marine fog. [Photo by Adam Estes]
The whole local area was covered with a thick marine layer (here seen behind the PoF Sabre and a USAF F-16) that cleared up by the time show was scheduled. (The airport is only 30 miles or so as the crow flies from the Pacific coast). [Photo by Adam Estes]
Chris Fahey in the MiG 15 chases Steve Hinton in the Sabre. [Photo by Adam Estes]
Eric Tucker stunting in the classic Cub’s classic routine. [Photo by Adam Estes]
The Planes of Fame’s P-40 in desert colors. [Photo by Adam Estes]
Missing man tribute. [L-R] Planes of Fame Bearcat, Corsair, Lightning and Mustang. [Photo by Adam Estes]
Dakota Territory Air Museum’s Republic P-47D Thunderbolt 42-27609 sparkles in the sun. [Photo by Adam Estes]
Eric Tucker, Piper Cub and his ‘band of brothers’ children (as on his website ‘Tuckers Air Patrol‘) atop the mock ambulance. Acts and visible families like this are an excellent way of broadening public engagement with aviation. [Photo by Adam Estes]
US Navy Heritage Flight ‘Rhino’ with an F/A-18 Super Hornet and the Planes of Fame Grumman F8F Bearcat. [Photo by Adam Estes]
Les Whittlesey’s Chino based immaculate Lockheed 12, NC18906. [Photo by Adam Estes]
P-51D Mustang racer ‘Bardahl Special’ fresh from Reno. See our reports here and here. [Photo by Adam Estes]
Californian light just over the ramp. [Photo by Adam Estes]
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By Adam Estes.
The October 14-15, 2023 weekend saw the second annual Central Coast Airfest at Santa Maria Public Airport, about 140 miles (225 km) northwest from Los Angeles, California. The event presents numerous aircraft from WWII up to modern military types. While not the first airshows at this airport, it is the second to be organized primarily by the Planes of Fame Air Museum (PoF). This well known, well established flying museum is set to expand to the airport in order to provide an additional location to work in concert with the pre-existing museum in Chino, that has been a staple of the California warbird community for over half a century.
The October 14-15, 2023 weekend saw the second annual Central Coast Airfest at Santa Maria Public Airport, about 140 miles (225 km) northwest from Los Angeles, California. The event presents numerous aircraft from WWII up to modern military types. While not the first airshows at this airport, it is the second to be organized primarily by the Planes of Fame Air Museum (PoF). This well known, well established flying museum is set to expand to the airport in order to provide an additional location to work in concert with the pre-existing museum in Chino, that has been a staple of the California warbird community for over half a century.
The Mosquito PZ474 in the Saturday morning marine fog. [Photo by Adam Estes]
The whole local area was covered with a thick marine layer (here seen behind the PoF Sabre and a USAF F-16) that cleared up by the time show was scheduled. (The airport is only 30 miles or so as the crow flies from the Pacific coast). [Photo by Adam Estes]
Unsurprisingly, as the primary organizer of the event, the Planes of Fame’s collection represented the largest single contingent of warbirds present. The museum flew a dozen aircraft from Chino, from their Allison-powered NAA P-51A Mustang ‘Miss Virginia’, and their Grumman F8F Bearcat, to their NAA F-86F Sabre and MiG-15.
Chris Fahey in the MiG 15 chases Steve Hinton in the Sabre. [Photo by Adam Estes]
Another aircraft flown up to Santa Maria by the Planes of Fame was their P-38J Lightning, which flies painted as ’23 Skidoo’, as flown in the South Pacific by Perry J. Dahl of the 475th Fighter Group. The PoF P-38, 44-23314, was actually flown at Santa Maria Airport during WWII, when the airport had been built as Santa Maria Army Airfield and was home to the 483rd Air Base Squadron’s complement of P-38 Lightnings – including 44-23314.
Eric Tucker stunting in the classic Cub’s classic routine. [Photo by Adam Estes]
After the war, Lightning 44-23314 would be used as an instructional airframe at the Hancock College of Aeronautics at Hancock Field (and now the site of Allan Hancock College) until it was acquired by pilot and collector Jack Hardwick, who then sold the aircraft to Planes of Fame founder Ed Maloney. While it is not the first time the Lightning has returned to Santa Maria, it is, of course, very rare indeed for a WWII aircraft to fly back to the same airfield it flew out of nearly 80 years ago. Additionally, the PoF Bell YP-59A Airacomet, 42-108777, which is currently in the Chino museum restoration hangar, was also assigned to Santa Maria Army Airfield with the 412th Fighter Group, and was also an instructional airframe for the Hancock College of Aeronautics shortly after the war!
The Planes of Fame’s P-40 in desert colors. [Photo by Adam Estes]
Missing man tribute. [L-R] Planes of Fame Bearcat, Corsair, Lightning and Mustang. [Photo by Adam Estes]
As has been previously annonced, the Planes of Fame will be opening a new museum location for some aircraft at Santa Maria Airport. The new site (which it is important to note is not intended to replace Chino but to complement it) is set to be located next to the airport’s Radisson Hotel and will open within the next two years.
Dakota Territory Air Museum’s Republic P-47D Thunderbolt 42-27609 sparkles in the sun. [Photo by Adam Estes]
Several other rare types were also present: from Charles Somers’ de Havilland DH.98 Mosquito FB VI PZ474 (one of only four airworthy representatives of the type) to the Dakota Territory Air Museum’s Republic P-47D Thunderbolt 42-27609. This ‘Jug’ has had an incredible journey – being recovered from Papua New Guinea, to being beautifully restored by the talented team at AirCorps Aviation in Minnesota. The gleaming Thunderbolt is in the markings of another Pacific War veteran P-47D razorback, 42-27884, known as ‘Bonnie’ and flown by Major (later Brigadier General) William ‘Bill’ Dunham when he was the commanding officer of the 460th Fighter Squadron, 348th Fighter Group. Bonnie, which is now the sole Republic-built P-47 ‘Razorback’ in airworthy condition, was put through its paces with the skilled hands of Bernie Vasquez, who has been flying the aircraft since its first post-restoration flight back in May of this year. (‘Razorback’ P-47G Thunderbolt 42-25068 ‘Snafu’, also airworthy, is one of only two Curtiss-built examples surviving.)
Another rare aircraft that took to the skies was one of the last two surviving Howard 500 executive conversions of the Lockheed PV-1 Ventura / PV-2 Harpoon design, which took the air alongside P-38 23 Skidoo for a two ship, Lockheed formation.
Another rare aircraft that took to the skies was one of the last two surviving Howard 500 executive conversions of the Lockheed PV-1 Ventura / PV-2 Harpoon design, which took the air alongside P-38 23 Skidoo for a two ship, Lockheed formation.
Eric Tucker, Piper Cub and his ‘band of brothers’ children (as on his website ‘Tuckers Air Patrol‘) atop the mock ambulance. Acts and visible families like this are an excellent way of broadening public engagement with aviation. [Photo by Adam Estes]
Among the aerobatic performances at Santa Maria, Vicky Benzing flew her modified Stearman, which roared through the skies with its 450 horsepower Pratt & Whitney R-985 radial as she looped and rolled over the field. Meanwhile, Eric Tucker flew his Piper Cub through several well-choreographed maneuvers, from a dead-stick landing to landing on the roof of a moving van painted as an ambulance. Dennis Sanders, famous for his experience in flying the Hawker Sea Fury, took up his T Mk 20, complete with his famous ‘Smokewider’ smoke system that traces the vortices from the aircraft’s wake.
Vintage jets were also included – from Jason Somes’ MiG-17 (in reality a Polish-built Lim-5) to Ace Maker Aviation’s T-33 Shooting Star.
Modern military aircraft were also demonstrated over Santa Maria, including a C-17 Globemaster III of the 97th Operations Group, which flew in concert with a KC-135 Stratotanker; a Boeing-Vertol V-22 Osprey displaying its unique tilt-rotor capabilities, and with the day rounded out by the Air Force’s F-16 ‘Viper’ Demo Team and Navy’s F/A-18 ‘Rhino’ Demo Team showing the incredible capabilities of their respective aircraft before concluding with a Heritage Flight flyby – the ‘Viper’ team flying with the PoF P-51A Mustang, and the ‘Rhino’ team with the museum’s F8F Bearcat.
Modern military aircraft were also demonstrated over Santa Maria, including a C-17 Globemaster III of the 97th Operations Group, which flew in concert with a KC-135 Stratotanker; a Boeing-Vertol V-22 Osprey displaying its unique tilt-rotor capabilities, and with the day rounded out by the Air Force’s F-16 ‘Viper’ Demo Team and Navy’s F/A-18 ‘Rhino’ Demo Team showing the incredible capabilities of their respective aircraft before concluding with a Heritage Flight flyby – the ‘Viper’ team flying with the PoF P-51A Mustang, and the ‘Rhino’ team with the museum’s F8F Bearcat.
US Navy Heritage Flight ‘Rhino’ with an F/A-18 Super Hornet and the Planes of Fame Grumman F8F Bearcat. [Photo by Adam Estes]
In the air after the show were several aircraft of the Cal-Aerofab Flight Academy, also based out of Chino. This organization of proud pilots, maintainers, and enthusiasts (of which the author is a proud member) has been active at local air shows in southern California and sold rides to many eager passengers of all ages and backgrounds to support their ongoing efforts to restore and to maintain their growing fleet at Chino.
Les Whittlesey’s Chino based immaculate Lockheed 12, NC18906. [Photo by Adam Estes]
Planes of Fame was not the only museum present at the AirFest, with the Estrella Warbird Museum in Paso Robles bringing in their C-47 ‘Betsy’s Biscuit Bomber’ to allow the public to walk through the venerable WWII-combat veteran, and the Santa Maria Museum of Flight had a tent at the show. Both museums have been covered in previous articles here (Profile: Santa Maria Museum of Flight) and here (Profile: Estrella Warbird Museum). Lastly, numerous civil and military aircraft were on static display on the flight line, from Carbon Cubs to F-35 Lightning IIs.
P-51D Mustang racer ‘Bardahl Special’ fresh from Reno. See our reports here and here. [Photo by Adam Estes]
Given the success of the show among both locals and visitors, the new Planes of Fame museum in Santa Maria looks to have a bright future. With the first phase being set to open within the next couple of years, the adage, “If you built it, they will come” should apply to Santa Maria just as it has for Chino. Adam Estes.
Californian light just over the ramp. [Photo by Adam Estes]
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This is a real beauty!!
Les Whittlesey’s Chino based immaculate Lockheed 12, NC18906. [Photo by Adam Estes]
Grand Opening for Women Answer the Call Exhibit
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BELLEVILLE, MICH. (November 1, 2023) – After 18 months of development and construction, the Women Answer the Call exhibit officially opens to the public on Saturday, November 11th. The exhibit celebrates the history of what happened at Willow Run during World War II when women left their homes to work in factories supporting the war effort. Visitors will get a glimpse of local Rosie the Riveters who went to work in the Ford Willow Run Bomber Plant in Ypsilanti. Guests will learn about the many roles women played in the war, both in industry and military, see fascinating artifacts from local families, and partake in a hands-on riveting demonstration. The Grand Opening will also include Yankee Air Museum’s Tribute Rosies and Original Rosies who worked at the Bomber Plant and other factories in Detroit during the war.
November 11th is also Veterans Day. The Yankee Air Museum will honor all veterans with free admission for them and their families. In conjunction with the opening of the Answer the Call exhibit, the Museum will also give a Rosie the Riveter pin to the first 200 visitors that day. Museum hours are 10 am until 4 pm that day and online tickets can be purchased at Museum Hours | Yankee Air Museum | Southeast Michigan.
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, 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.
November 11th is also Veterans Day. The Yankee Air Museum will honor all veterans with free admission for them and their families. In conjunction with the opening of the Answer the Call exhibit, the Museum will also give a Rosie the Riveter pin to the first 200 visitors that day. Museum hours are 10 am until 4 pm that day and online tickets can be purchased at Museum Hours | Yankee Air Museum | Southeast Michigan.
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, 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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Hickory Breaks Ground on New Aviation Museum and Workforce Innovation Center
PRESS RELEASE
Retired U.S. Navy Commander Frank Weisser
Retired U.S. Navy Commander Frank Weisser
Kyle and Kregg Kirby, the men who started it all more than 30 years ago.
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PRESS RELEASE
Leaders from the City of Hickory, Hickory Aviation Museum, and Catawba Valley Community College gathered at Hickory Regional Airport this morning to officially break ground on the construction of a new facility where aviation and education will come together. The City of Hickory is partnering with the Sabre Society of North Carolina/Hickory Aviation Museum and Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC) to construct a building to house the museum’s vintage military aircraft, preserve aviation history, and provide STEM education and workforce development opportunities.
The expanded Hickory Aviation Museum will feature a hangar to preserve and display aircraft and will also serve as the site of CVCC’s Workforce Innovation Center, a regional educational campus with flexible use space providing high-tech equipment, classrooms, and virtual simulators for training.
Hickory Mayor Hank Guess opened the groundbreaking ceremony by welcoming attendees. The roar of two North American T-28 Trojan warbirds briefly interrupted the ceremony as they blazed over the skies of Hickory to signal the launch of this transformative project.
“We are here to witness the fusion of aviation and education in a way that has never been seen before, as we embark on the journey of constructing an innovative facility that will be a cornerstone for our community’s future. Set atop the highest point in Hickory, this new facility will become a destination for education and experience, offering beautiful views of the Catawba Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains in the distance,” Guess said. “It will be a place where dreams take flight, where young minds are nurtured, and where people of all ages can embark on a journey of lifelong learning.”
Hickory Mayor Hank Guess opened the groundbreaking ceremony by welcoming attendees. The roar of two North American T-28 Trojan warbirds briefly interrupted the ceremony as they blazed over the skies of Hickory to signal the launch of this transformative project.
“We are here to witness the fusion of aviation and education in a way that has never been seen before, as we embark on the journey of constructing an innovative facility that will be a cornerstone for our community’s future. Set atop the highest point in Hickory, this new facility will become a destination for education and experience, offering beautiful views of the Catawba Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains in the distance,” Guess said. “It will be a place where dreams take flight, where young minds are nurtured, and where people of all ages can embark on a journey of lifelong learning.”
Retired U.S. Navy Commander Frank Weisser
CVCC President Dr. Garrett Hinshaw commented on the impact this new facility and partnership will have on the region. “This whole community is about partnership, and we prove it time and time again, that we can do anything when we work together. When Kregg Kirby heard about this project, we got together and got started talking about the opportunities up here. Things started clicking. From that one conversation, we stand here today to celebrate this groundbreaking ceremony that marks the beginning of a journey that will shape the future of our communities, our children, and generations to come in this region. Education is the cornerstone of progress, the key to unlocking the potential of our next generation, and a testament to our commitment and passion for assuring that everyone has opportunities to be successful. Together, we embark on a journey that will impact countless lives and leave an incredible mark on our region. Let us be inspired by the possibilities that exist here today and work tirelessly to ensure that this educational facility and museum becomes a beacon of the future of this region and shows how successful we can be.”
Retired U.S. Navy Commander Frank Weisser, a two-time Blue Angels solo pilot who delivered the Hickory Aviation Museum’s Blue Angel in 2020 and now serves on the museum’s board of directors, then shared his passion for aviation and excitement for the new museum. “I spent 10 years of my career flying with the Blue Angels. I saw the impact of these air shows in every city we went to. Just like a Blue Angel performance, the museum brings aviation to life. The jet that I brought is an incredible machine. No question about it. But what’s more incredible than the machines are the stories of the men and women who flew them and the men and women who maintained them. And if you go into these museums, you see these stories come alive,” Weisser said. “Two brothers had both the dream and the vision, and the willpower, 35 years later, to make this thing happen. I spent five minutes with Kregg and Kyle Kirby, and I felt this incredible energy, this excitement that comes from these stories because it takes it to the next level.”
Retired U.S. Navy Commander Frank Weisser, a two-time Blue Angels solo pilot who delivered the Hickory Aviation Museum’s Blue Angel in 2020 and now serves on the museum’s board of directors, then shared his passion for aviation and excitement for the new museum. “I spent 10 years of my career flying with the Blue Angels. I saw the impact of these air shows in every city we went to. Just like a Blue Angel performance, the museum brings aviation to life. The jet that I brought is an incredible machine. No question about it. But what’s more incredible than the machines are the stories of the men and women who flew them and the men and women who maintained them. And if you go into these museums, you see these stories come alive,” Weisser said. “Two brothers had both the dream and the vision, and the willpower, 35 years later, to make this thing happen. I spent five minutes with Kregg and Kyle Kirby, and I felt this incredible energy, this excitement that comes from these stories because it takes it to the next level.”
Retired U.S. Navy Commander Frank Weisser
“This museum makes Hickory an aviation destination,” he added. “It has the potential to inspire young men and women not to spend their lives tied to the ground, literally or figuratively. It might inspire them to have a career in aviation, but it also might just make them think they can do things they didn’t think were possible before, because aviation has this incredible propensity to propel people at supersonic speeds to a level of imagination that they didn’t think was possible.”
Weisser concluded by saying, “In the fall of 2020, we were getting rid of our F-18 Charlies and moving to the Super Hornet on the Blue Angels. And I had this privilege of taking airplanes all over the country. Of all the cities we delivered those airplanes to, there was one where when I landed, I didn’t know a single person, but I felt like I was home. That was in Hickory. So, when you combine this museum, this structure, this facility, the energy of this event, and the warmth of this town, I personally think you have an unbeatable combination here. It’s not just showcasing aviation. It’s inspiring the future and allowing Hickory to be a part of that.”
The ceremony also included additional remarks from North Carolina Senator Dean Proctor, David E. Looper & Company President Roger Young, and CommScope founder and Hickory Aviation Museum benefactor Frank Drendel. Community leaders then took turns shoveling dirt for the ceremonious groundbreaking.
This innovative $24 million project will be funded by an $18.7 million allocation from the State of North Carolina and by public and private donations to the Sabre Society of North Carolina, the non-profit organization for the Hickory Aviation Museum. The museum continues to pursue additional funding to support the restoration and display of its vintage aircraft collection.
Weisser concluded by saying, “In the fall of 2020, we were getting rid of our F-18 Charlies and moving to the Super Hornet on the Blue Angels. And I had this privilege of taking airplanes all over the country. Of all the cities we delivered those airplanes to, there was one where when I landed, I didn’t know a single person, but I felt like I was home. That was in Hickory. So, when you combine this museum, this structure, this facility, the energy of this event, and the warmth of this town, I personally think you have an unbeatable combination here. It’s not just showcasing aviation. It’s inspiring the future and allowing Hickory to be a part of that.”
The ceremony also included additional remarks from North Carolina Senator Dean Proctor, David E. Looper & Company President Roger Young, and CommScope founder and Hickory Aviation Museum benefactor Frank Drendel. Community leaders then took turns shoveling dirt for the ceremonious groundbreaking.
This innovative $24 million project will be funded by an $18.7 million allocation from the State of North Carolina and by public and private donations to the Sabre Society of North Carolina, the non-profit organization for the Hickory Aviation Museum. The museum continues to pursue additional funding to support the restoration and display of its vintage aircraft collection.
Kyle and Kregg Kirby, the men who started it all more than 30 years ago.
Visit www.elevatehky.com for more information about this project and how to support the Hickory Aviation Museum by making a tax-deductible contribution.
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Commemorative Air Force Acquires TT-1 Pinto Jet
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PRESS RELEASE
The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is thrilled to announce the latest addition to its historic aircraft collection, the Temco TT-1 Pinto registered N4486L. This is a notable acquisition for the Commemorative Air Force as the aircraft is not only post-World War II-era but also a jet. This unique acquisition reflects the organization’s unwavering commitment to preserving aviation history and ensuring that future generations can experience the thrill of flight aboard these living legends.
The TT-1 Pinto is an experimental jet trainer aircraft produced during the 1950s. On October 18, 1955, the U.S. Navy released a Request for Proposals calling for a new primary jet trainer to replace the Beechcraft T-34. The Pinto was designed to provide a transition platform for naval aviators moving from propeller-driven aircraft to jet-powered ones. The Pinto played a vital role in training the men and women who would become the backbone of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps aviation. However, by the spring of 1960, the Navy elected to end its Jet training program.
The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is thrilled to announce the latest addition to its historic aircraft collection, the Temco TT-1 Pinto registered N4486L. This is a notable acquisition for the Commemorative Air Force as the aircraft is not only post-World War II-era but also a jet. This unique acquisition reflects the organization’s unwavering commitment to preserving aviation history and ensuring that future generations can experience the thrill of flight aboard these living legends.
The TT-1 Pinto is an experimental jet trainer aircraft produced during the 1950s. On October 18, 1955, the U.S. Navy released a Request for Proposals calling for a new primary jet trainer to replace the Beechcraft T-34. The Pinto was designed to provide a transition platform for naval aviators moving from propeller-driven aircraft to jet-powered ones. The Pinto played a vital role in training the men and women who would become the backbone of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps aviation. However, by the spring of 1960, the Navy elected to end its Jet training program.
The aircraft has been assigned to a newly established Super Pinto Sponsor Group. Rick Bell, one of the aircraft sponsors, said, “We are thrilled to operate this exceptional aircraft; it will enhance our ability to tell the story of military aviation history beyond World War II. The Pinto is also a great addition to our educational and historical outreach efforts.”
The Pinto Sponsor Group will soon unveil the TT-1 Pinto, which will be based at the CAF hangar in Memphis, and will divide its time between Memphis, Pensacola, and Dallas. The group also hopes to be able to start offering living history flights in the Pinto next year. For more information about the Commemorative Air Force, its collection of vintage military aircraft, and upcoming events, please visit https://commemorativeairforce.org/aircraft.
The Pinto Sponsor Group will soon unveil the TT-1 Pinto, which will be based at the CAF hangar in Memphis, and will divide its time between Memphis, Pensacola, and Dallas. The group also hopes to be able to start offering living history flights in the Pinto next year. For more information about the Commemorative Air Force, its collection of vintage military aircraft, and upcoming events, please visit https://commemorativeairforce.org/aircraft.
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Rare Boeing P-26 Peashooter Replica Added to Spirit of Flight Museum
The Spirit of Flight Foundation museum announced that a rare Boeing P-26 Peashooter replica has been donated to the museum collection. The Boeing P-26 was the first all-metal monoplane structure and the last open-cockpit fighter to be used by the U.S. Army Air Corps. It was a significant step in the evolution of fighter aircraft.
“Only two original P-26 fighters exist of the 151 that were built by Boeing,” said Gordon Page, President of the Spirit of Flight Foundation. “Three other reproduction/replicas exist, and one of the two P-26s that Tim and Gayla O-Connor were building is on the way to the Spirit of Flight,” he added.
Tim and Gayla O’Connor of Golden Age Aeroplane Works began an ambitious project over 20 years ago to build two P-26s using the original structural and systems specifications from original Boeing blueprints. The goal was to build them as if they were a continuation of the production line from the 1930s. As with the originals, the reproductions will be powered by Pratt & Whitney R-1340 radial engines. Sadly, Tim O’Connor passed away in 2020 after much progress had been made on the two P-26s. The projects have been in storage since.
“Everyone I have met in my aviation career knows the P-26 Peashooter and probably played with a toy version as a kid,” said Gordon Page. “I know I did, and I have always loved the story of the little plane that bridged wooden biplanes to all-metal fighters of WWII,” Page went on to say.
The two Golden Age Aeroplane Works P-26s are being carefully packed for shipping from Indiana to Legend Flyers in Everett, WA where they will be completed. Legend Flyers is currently finalizing the restoration of a Mitsubishi A6M3 Zero to flyable condition and is anxious to begin work on the P-26s.
“I have wanted to build a Boeing P-26 for 40 years,” said Bob Hammer, President of Legend Flyers. “I have had an original set of plans and a model of the Peashooter sitting on my desk for a long time, and I guess now is the time I can finally build some.” Legend Flyers owns one of the two projects P-26 Peashooters that Tim and Gayla O’Connor were building and will complete the Spirit of Flight project along with their P-26. “Hopefully we will see one in the air in the next few years,” said Bob Hammer. “We are certainly going to do our best to finish what Tim and Gayla started,” he added.
The CHASING PLANES YouTube channel features the project P-26s as they get ready for shipping.
About Legend Flyers- Based in Everett, WA, Legend Flyers has completed many historic aircraft to flying condition. Projects include several of the Messerschmitt Me-262 fighter jets, a Focke-Wulf FW-190, a Me-163 Comet and most recently a Mitsubishi A6M3 Zero fighter. Contact Legend Flyers at [email protected] more information.
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The Spirit of Flight Foundation museum announced that a rare Boeing P-26 Peashooter replica has been donated to the museum collection. The Boeing P-26 was the first all-metal monoplane structure and the last open-cockpit fighter to be used by the U.S. Army Air Corps. It was a significant step in the evolution of fighter aircraft.
“Only two original P-26 fighters exist of the 151 that were built by Boeing,” said Gordon Page, President of the Spirit of Flight Foundation. “Three other reproduction/replicas exist, and one of the two P-26s that Tim and Gayla O-Connor were building is on the way to the Spirit of Flight,” he added.
Tim and Gayla O’Connor of Golden Age Aeroplane Works began an ambitious project over 20 years ago to build two P-26s using the original structural and systems specifications from original Boeing blueprints. The goal was to build them as if they were a continuation of the production line from the 1930s. As with the originals, the reproductions will be powered by Pratt & Whitney R-1340 radial engines. Sadly, Tim O’Connor passed away in 2020 after much progress had been made on the two P-26s. The projects have been in storage since.
“Everyone I have met in my aviation career knows the P-26 Peashooter and probably played with a toy version as a kid,” said Gordon Page. “I know I did, and I have always loved the story of the little plane that bridged wooden biplanes to all-metal fighters of WWII,” Page went on to say.
The two Golden Age Aeroplane Works P-26s are being carefully packed for shipping from Indiana to Legend Flyers in Everett, WA where they will be completed. Legend Flyers is currently finalizing the restoration of a Mitsubishi A6M3 Zero to flyable condition and is anxious to begin work on the P-26s.
“I have wanted to build a Boeing P-26 for 40 years,” said Bob Hammer, President of Legend Flyers. “I have had an original set of plans and a model of the Peashooter sitting on my desk for a long time, and I guess now is the time I can finally build some.” Legend Flyers owns one of the two projects P-26 Peashooters that Tim and Gayla O’Connor were building and will complete the Spirit of Flight project along with their P-26. “Hopefully we will see one in the air in the next few years,” said Bob Hammer. “We are certainly going to do our best to finish what Tim and Gayla started,” he added.
The CHASING PLANES YouTube channel features the project P-26s as they get ready for shipping.
About the Spirit of Flight Foundation and Museum – Founded in 1998, the non-profit Spirit of Flight Foundation features over 2500 aviation artifacts at the museum facility in Nampa, Idaho. Aircraft in the collection include a James Bond BD-5 jet, a 1947 Race Plane built by Art Chester, a 1937 Waco EGC-7, and a Radioplane target drone, built in the factory where Marilyn Monroe was discovered. The Spirit of Flight Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and uses tax-deductible donations to support its mission to save aviation history. Contact the Spirit of Flight Foundation at [email protected] for more information.
About Legend Flyers- Based in Everett, WA, Legend Flyers has completed many historic aircraft to flying condition. Projects include several of the Messerschmitt Me-262 fighter jets, a Focke-Wulf FW-190, a Me-163 Comet and most recently a Mitsubishi A6M3 Zero fighter. Contact Legend Flyers at [email protected] more information.
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Platinum Spotlight: 1937 Hawker Demon For Sale
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Periodically, we highlight vintage aircraft listed for sale with one of our sponsors, Platinum Fighter Sales. Want to buy a Hawker Demon? How much does one cost? What’s it worth? These questions are perennials in the warbird world and beyond. This iconic Hawker Demon is possibly the most original and authentic, privately owned inter-war bi-plane available for purchase. It is based in the UK and available for Inspection by appointment only.
This beautiful 1937 Hawker Demon K8203 has 31 hours of flight time since an extensive 100-point restoration by Skysport Engineering, UK which was completed in 2009. The privately owned and operated Demon, K8203 is the only Demon currently flying and is a regular performer on the British airshow circuit. The only other example is on static display at the RAAF Museum, Point Cook, Australia.
The Hawker Demon was developed from the Hawker Hart bomber to address the Royal Air Force’s (RAF) lack of a fast fighter aircraft, the Demon went into production for the RAF in 1932, with a total of 304 aircraft eventually produced. In August 1934 the Australian Government ordered 18 Hawker Demons for the RAAF. Powered by a Rolls Royce Kestrel Mk V engine, these aircraft were for use as a general purpose/fighter aircraft. Subsequently, a further 36 were purchased for army co-operation and fighter-bomber duties and another 10 for target towing and training duties, with the 64 Demons serving with Nos 1, 2, 3, 12, and 22 Squadrons and No 1 Communications Unit. On the eve of World War II, the 54 Demons still in operational service were progressively replaced by CAC Wirraways, for use in the training and communications roles, and the last of the Demons were eventually phased out by the end of the war.
An air to air view of RAF Hawker Demon I K4500.
The Hawker Demon was developed from the Hawker Hart bomber to address the Royal Air Force’s (RAF) lack of a fast fighter aircraft, the Demon went into production for the RAF in 1932, with a total of 304 aircraft eventually produced. In August 1934 the Australian Government ordered 18 Hawker Demons for the RAAF. Powered by a Rolls Royce Kestrel Mk V engine, these aircraft were for use as a general purpose/fighter aircraft. Subsequently, a further 36 were purchased for army co-operation and fighter-bomber duties and another 10 for target towing and training duties, with the 64 Demons serving with Nos 1, 2, 3, 12, and 22 Squadrons and No 1 Communications Unit. On the eve of World War II, the 54 Demons still in operational service were progressively replaced by CAC Wirraways, for use in the training and communications roles, and the last of the Demons were eventually phased out by the end of the war.
An air to air view of RAF Hawker Demon I K4500.
Demon K8203 was among the last 37 built by Boulton Paul Aircraft Ltd. of Wolverhampton and was delivered to No. 1 Aircraft Servicing Unit on October 27, 1937. Initially assigned to No. 64 Squadron at RAF Church Fenton, it was transferred to 25 Sqn. at RAF Hawkinge in mid-1938. Replaced by the Gladiator, the Demon was assigned to No. 9 Maintenance Unit at RAF Cosford and No. 9 Air Observers School (later renamed No. 9 Bombing & Gunnery School) at RAF Penrhos in Wales. That was K8203’s last operational station until it was struck off inventory on September 28, 1940, and became a ground training aid for No 1 Service Flying Training School at RAF Netheravon. K8023 was finally disposed of while with No. 413 (Aldershot) Squadron of the Air Training Corps, during 1943. Luckily, the Demon’s rear fuselage survived in storage at the RAF Museum depot at Cardington and was sold to civilian hands in 1991. SkySport Engineering Ltd. restored it to flying condition, and after more than 35,000 man hours and 18 long years, Demon K8023 returned to the sky on June 23, 2009, piloted by Stuart Goldspink. It was painted in the color scheme it wore while serving with No. 64 Squadron at RAF Church Fenton in 1937.
For more information about this beautiful aircraft, visit www.platinumfighters.com
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NAS Wildwood Aviation Museum to Host Free Virtual Lecture Series
A panoramic view inside the historic Hangar 1 which now houses the NAS Wildwood Aviation Museum. (image via NASWAM)
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PRESS RELEASE
Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum is thrilled to announce its Fall Virtual Lecture Series, a captivating array of presentations that delve into the rich history and heritage of the United States. Hosted on Zoom, this series will run from October to December, providing an opportunity to explore a variety of engaging topics.
The Fall Virtual Lecture Series is a platform where history enthusiasts and the community can come together to virtually discover and appreciate the intriguing stories and events that have shaped our nation.
The schedule of the Fall Virtual Lecture Series is as follows:
November 15, 2023, 7 PM – The United States Life-Saving Service
Speaker: Historian John Ryan
John Ryan will take you on a journey through the history of the United States Life-Saving Service, the predecessor to the U.S. Coast Guard, and its critical role in maritime rescue operations. In addition to the overall history of the service, the focus will be on the development of the service in Cape May County.
Register Here: Welcome! You are invited to join a webinar: UNITED STATES LIFE SAVING SERVICE IN CAPE MAY COUNTY . After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the webinar.
November 29, 2023, 7 PM – George Washington, New Jersey, and the Revolutionary War
Speaker: Revolutionary War Lecture’s Joel Farkas
Look at both George Washington’s military career starting in 1754 as a 21-year-old major in the Virginia militia, and a history of the Revolutionary War including the military battles and winter encampments in New Jersey.
Register Here: Welcome! You are invited to join a webinar: GEORGE WASHINGTON, NEW JERSEY, AND THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the webinar.
December 6, 2023, 7 PM – The WWII Homefront & Christmas on the Homefront
Speaker: Historian Mary Rasa
Mary Rasa will transport you back to the World War II homefront and share the heartwarming stories of Christmas during wartime. This program is about the World War II home front. It talks about the men and women serving in the war as well as those at home. The US was in a total war that affected every citizen. Rationing, blackouts, and bond drives changed eating habits and daily life. Customs such as Christmas decorations, food preparation, and ingredients were changed because of shortages. Its main focus is the homeland US defenses against its enemies and the development of radar on the beaches.
Register here: Welcome! You are invited to join a webinar: CHRISTMAS ON THE HOMEFRONT DURING WWII. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the webinar.
All lectures will be conducted on Zoom, allowing participants to interact with the speakers and ask questions. Registration for the Fall Virtual Lecture Series is open to the public and is free of charge.
“Our Fall Virtual Lecture Series is an opportunity to engage with our rich national history and hear from passionate experts who bring these stories to life,” said Bruce Fournier, Museum Director at Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum. “We invite the community to join us in this journey through time and share in a wide variety of topics.”
Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to enrich your knowledge of the nation’s history. Register today and save the dates for these insightful and informative presentations.
Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum is thrilled to announce its Fall Virtual Lecture Series, a captivating array of presentations that delve into the rich history and heritage of the United States. Hosted on Zoom, this series will run from October to December, providing an opportunity to explore a variety of engaging topics.
The Fall Virtual Lecture Series is a platform where history enthusiasts and the community can come together to virtually discover and appreciate the intriguing stories and events that have shaped our nation.
The schedule of the Fall Virtual Lecture Series is as follows:
November 15, 2023, 7 PM – The United States Life-Saving Service
Speaker: Historian John Ryan
John Ryan will take you on a journey through the history of the United States Life-Saving Service, the predecessor to the U.S. Coast Guard, and its critical role in maritime rescue operations. In addition to the overall history of the service, the focus will be on the development of the service in Cape May County.
Register Here: Welcome! You are invited to join a webinar: UNITED STATES LIFE SAVING SERVICE IN CAPE MAY COUNTY . After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the webinar.
November 29, 2023, 7 PM – George Washington, New Jersey, and the Revolutionary War
Speaker: Revolutionary War Lecture’s Joel Farkas
Look at both George Washington’s military career starting in 1754 as a 21-year-old major in the Virginia militia, and a history of the Revolutionary War including the military battles and winter encampments in New Jersey.
Register Here: Welcome! You are invited to join a webinar: GEORGE WASHINGTON, NEW JERSEY, AND THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the webinar.
December 6, 2023, 7 PM – The WWII Homefront & Christmas on the Homefront
Speaker: Historian Mary Rasa
Mary Rasa will transport you back to the World War II homefront and share the heartwarming stories of Christmas during wartime. This program is about the World War II home front. It talks about the men and women serving in the war as well as those at home. The US was in a total war that affected every citizen. Rationing, blackouts, and bond drives changed eating habits and daily life. Customs such as Christmas decorations, food preparation, and ingredients were changed because of shortages. Its main focus is the homeland US defenses against its enemies and the development of radar on the beaches.
Register here: Welcome! You are invited to join a webinar: CHRISTMAS ON THE HOMEFRONT DURING WWII. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the webinar.
All lectures will be conducted on Zoom, allowing participants to interact with the speakers and ask questions. Registration for the Fall Virtual Lecture Series is open to the public and is free of charge.
“Our Fall Virtual Lecture Series is an opportunity to engage with our rich national history and hear from passionate experts who bring these stories to life,” said Bruce Fournier, Museum Director at Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum. “We invite the community to join us in this journey through time and share in a wide variety of topics.”
Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to enrich your knowledge of the nation’s history. Register today and save the dates for these insightful and informative presentations.
A panoramic view inside the historic Hangar 1 which now houses the NAS Wildwood Aviation Museum. (image via NASWAM)
Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum is located inside historic Hangar #1 at the Cape May Airport. The site was formerly Naval Air Station Wildwood, which served as a World War II dive-bomber training center. The museum is dedicated to the 42 aviators who perished while training at Naval Air Station Wildwood between 1943 and 1945. The museum is currently closed for replacement of it’s southside roof, however the museum’s office and online store are open. For more information about NASW, visit www.usnasw.org, the museum’s social media pages, or call (609) 886-8787.
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Open Cockpits At Moorabbin Museum
Dads get to show kids all the buttons in this privately owned ex-Singaporian Hawker Hunter.
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The Moorabbin Air Museum, near Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, is hosting its first Family Open Cockpit Weekend since the end of the Covid Lockdowns. It will be a two-day event for the first time, on the 18th and 19th of November from 10 am to 5pm.
While a great, much anticipated opportunity for aviation enthusiasts, this event has always proven to be an especially popular day especially for families – as the museum staff not only open up the regular cockpits, but add another 16 or so aircraft or cockpit sections to the roster, including visiting cockpits, a Royal Flying Doctor Simulator and much more.
While a great, much anticipated opportunity for aviation enthusiasts, this event has always proven to be an especially popular day especially for families – as the museum staff not only open up the regular cockpits, but add another 16 or so aircraft or cockpit sections to the roster, including visiting cockpits, a Royal Flying Doctor Simulator and much more.
Dads get to show kids all the buttons in this privately owned ex-Singaporian Hawker Hunter.
For enthusiasts, it’s worth noting that this is the only time of the year that the Museum opens up aircraft such as the Commonwealth Aircraft Company Wirraway, Bristol Freighter and for the first time, the recently restored de Havilland Australia Drover. The museum says it’s an opportunity to get up close and personal with their incredible aircraft collection while immersing yourself in a hands-on adventure. Beyond the aircraft displays, there’s plenty more to look forward to! Indulge in a sizzling BBQ, peruse our book sale for some great reads, and enjoy extra entertainment tailored for the little ones.
And also, for the first time this year, the Museum has invited numerous other Museums to have displays in a co-operative effort to give them free promotion during the event. And alongside a big book sale, a major raffle, coffee truck and shop, plus for the family there will also be face painters and a roving magician. This weekend is a fantastic opportunity to sit in all types of aircraft from civilian, commercial, military, naval and even homebuilt and racing types. A future pilot may be in your family!
The Moorabbin Air Museum is situated at Moorabbin Airport, in the South Eastern suburbs of Melbourne. It has one of the most significant collections of aircraft and engines in Australia, including the most comprehensive collection of Australian designed and built aircraft.
Make sure to get your tickets early to avoid queues! Adults $10.00, children and concession $5.00. Families $20, children under 5 free. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3QtPqSc How to get there: Museum Access Details.
Make sure to get your tickets early to avoid queues! Adults $10.00, children and concession $5.00. Families $20, children under 5 free. Tickets: https://bit.ly/3QtPqSc How to get there: Museum Access Details.
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Fire Consumes Iconic WWII Blimp Hangar
Report by Adam Estes
An Open House event in 1946 on the Tustin base. The captured Mitsubishi Zero in the foreground is believed to be the very same one now in the Planes of Fame Air Museum.
Pictures taken last night.
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Report by Adam Estes
In the early morning hours of November 7, 2023, a fire started inside one of two World War II era blimp hangars on the former site of Marine Corps Air Station Tustin, California. This is Hangar 1 (North Hangar, Building 28). Since then, the fire has destroyed much of the 81-year-old wooden structure, leaving nothing but a shell behind.
Local media report authorities were notified of the fire between 12:30 am and 1:00 am local time. Firefighting efforts were carried out both on the ground, with local firefighters, and also with helicopters: notably a dedicated Chinook helitanker provided by Coulson Aviation. Due to the risk of falling debris, firefighters decided to let the fire burn itself out and remained on standby following daybreak.
The crackling of wooden beams paired with plumes of black and grey smoke billowing from the hangar could be seen and heard as the fire worked its way up from the hangar’s south side to its north, destroying the eastward-facing side, while the concrete frames for the massive doors remain standing. Tiles, ash, and even asbestos insulation were carried across nearby Valencia Ave into residential areas.
Many came to watch throughout the day, marking the end of a reminder of the region’s local history amid ongoing housing and residential developments.
The two blimp hangars have long been a part of the landscape of south Orange County since 1942 when they were built by the US Navy to house maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare blimps. The hangars were originally part of Naval Air Station (NAS) Santa Ana, established at the same time as nearby Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) El Toro. While El Toro was used for conventional airplane operations, NAS Santa Ana served as a lighter-than-air (LTA) station, complete with seven circular concrete mooring pads as well as runways for additional airplanes. Each hangar could accommodate six fully inflated blimps at once.
An Open House event in 1946 on the Tustin base. The captured Mitsubishi Zero in the foreground is believed to be the very same one now in the Planes of Fame Air Museum.
After WWII, NAS Santa Ana was decommissioned in 1949 before being reactivated in 1951 during the Korean War, as Marine Corps Air Facility (MCAF) Santa Ana, becoming the United States’ first installation dedicated to helicopter operations. The facility would be renamed Marine Corps Air Station MCAS Santa Ana in 1969, before receiving its final name of MCAS Tustin in 1978. As the Cold War began to wind down, however, both MCAS Tustin and El Toro were seen as no longer necessary and were decommissioned. Both installations were shut down in 1999, with El Toro being redeveloped into the Orange County Great Park and new housing developments, while the two blimp hangars saw intermittent activity between long periods of closure.
The two blimp hangars were used by Hollywood filmmakers and in TV shows such as ‘Pearl Harbor’, ‘JAG’, and ‘The X-Files’, as well as occasional storage and maintenance facilities for blimps. A notable extra was being used for the experimental cargo airship ‘Dragon Dream’, though this aircraft was damaged during a partial collapse of the north side Hangar 1 on October 7, 2013. Until the fire, Hangar 1 had been left derelict since the roof collapsed, while Hangar 2 (South Hangar, Building 29) remains standing.
We will provide further developments as they become available.
We will provide further developments as they become available.
Pictures taken last night.
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C.A.S.A. 352L (Junkers Ju 52/3M) Kent Battle of Britain Museum
Read more about this airplane and the restoration behind it on Warbird Lovers. The Kent Battle of Britain Museum is the largest Battle of Britain collection of memorabilia with artifacts collected from over 700 crashed aircraft on display. For more information, visit www.kbobm.org
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Almost a year ago to date, we reported (here) the news that the Kent Battle of Britain Museum acquired a C.A.S.A. 352L (Junkers Ju 52/3M) from the RAF Museum to add to their ever-expanding collection of airframes at the Museum. In a recent article, Warbird Lovers announced that this sole representative of the Junkers Ju 52 left in the UK is now on display at the Kent Battle of Britain Museum.
The airplane was built in Spain as a CASA 352L, and previously located at RAF Museum Midlands (Cosford). In just 4 months the “Ju 52” was disassembled, transported, completely paint stripped, repainted, reassembled, and repositioned for display at the Kent Battle of Britain Museum. Over the winter of 2022 /23 Phil Glover of Warbird Lovers visited the museum to follow the progress from arrival to final assembly and display. This article charts the visits, summarizes the work undertaken, and provides an overview of this excellent museum.
The C.A.S.A. 352L had been acquired from the RAF Museum where it has been on display at their RAF Museum Midlands site at Cosford for approximately thirty years. This airframe was put up for transfer by the RAF Museum in 2021 and after a bidding process and due diligence, the museum was pleased and proud to announce that they came up with a successful bid for this aircraft.
When the airplane arrived in November of 2022, it became one of the volunteers’ main winter projects. The team fully stripped and repainted externally into a color scheme of a Junkers Ju 52/3M that would have taken part in Operation Sealion, the planned invasion of Great Britain, had it taken place. The museum’s Chairman, Dave Brocklehurst MBE, said “It has been a personal quest for me for over forty years to acquire a Junkers Ju 52/3M for the museum collection. Now all we must do is locate such aircraft as a Junkers Ju 87B, Junkers Ju 88A, and Dornier Do 17Z to add to the collection”
The C.A.S.A. 352L had been acquired from the RAF Museum where it has been on display at their RAF Museum Midlands site at Cosford for approximately thirty years. This airframe was put up for transfer by the RAF Museum in 2021 and after a bidding process and due diligence, the museum was pleased and proud to announce that they came up with a successful bid for this aircraft.
When the airplane arrived in November of 2022, it became one of the volunteers’ main winter projects. The team fully stripped and repainted externally into a color scheme of a Junkers Ju 52/3M that would have taken part in Operation Sealion, the planned invasion of Great Britain, had it taken place. The museum’s Chairman, Dave Brocklehurst MBE, said “It has been a personal quest for me for over forty years to acquire a Junkers Ju 52/3M for the museum collection. Now all we must do is locate such aircraft as a Junkers Ju 87B, Junkers Ju 88A, and Dornier Do 17Z to add to the collection”
Read more about this airplane and the restoration behind it on Warbird Lovers. The Kent Battle of Britain Museum is the largest Battle of Britain collection of memorabilia with artifacts collected from over 700 crashed aircraft on display. For more information, visit www.kbobm.org
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Museum of Flight Veterans Day Celebration Shares the Healing Power of the Arts
PRESS RELEASE
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PRESS RELEASE
The Museum of Flight celebrates Nov. 11 Veterans Day with programs honoring those who have served in the United States Armed Forces, past and present. The celebration will focus on veteran artists and the healing power of the arts. Events begin at 11 a.m. with live patriotic music by the Boeing Employees Concert Band, followed at noon by a ceremony with keynote speaker Jeffrey Stenbom, an artist and U.S. Army veteran of the Iraq War. Stenbom will further engage Museum visitors during a dialogue about his military experience and his art at 2 p.m.
Museum visitors are also invited to a writing workshop from 1-3 p.m. conducted by the African American Writers Alliance. The workshop called A Place of Landing, honors ancestors and veterans. The Veterans Day Celebration is also part of the Museum’s six-month Art+Flight project (6/23-1/24). Museum admission will be free for all veterans and active-duty military (Free admission can only be redeemed on-site, and is not applicable to online sales. Active Duty must present valid I.D.).
SCHEDULE
11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Musical Performance by the Boeing Employees Concert Band
12 – 1 p.m. Veterans Day Ceremony
Museum visitors are also invited to a writing workshop from 1-3 p.m. conducted by the African American Writers Alliance. The workshop called A Place of Landing, honors ancestors and veterans. The Veterans Day Celebration is also part of the Museum’s six-month Art+Flight project (6/23-1/24). Museum admission will be free for all veterans and active-duty military (Free admission can only be redeemed on-site, and is not applicable to online sales. Active Duty must present valid I.D.).
SCHEDULE
11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Musical Performance by the Boeing Employees Concert Band
12 – 1 p.m. Veterans Day Ceremony
- Master of Ceremonies – The Museum of Flight President/CEO Matt Hayes
- Remarks by City of Tukwila Mayor Alan Eckberg
- Reading by Joseph Gaylloyd Sisson of the African American Writers Alliance
- Shared remarks by Washington State Department of Veterans CFO Terry Westhoff,
- and State Homes Operations Director Dan Murray
- Video of the Spokane Veterans Home resident art class
- Keynote Speaker Jeffrey Stenbom
2-3 p.m. Artist Talk with Jeffrey Stenbom Stenbom will share stories about his military experience, his art, and the creation of his woven sculpture, Freedom’s Threads, now on display in the World War II Gallery as part of the Museum’s temporary Art+Flight exhibition.
Art+Flight is a museum-wide, community-focused celebration connecting the region’s vibrant arts scene with its rich aerospace history. Art+Flight offers three dedicated galleries exhibiting sculptures, paintings, photographs and new media installations. Additionally, murals and sculptures have been added throughout the Museum’s campus. The project’s exhibitions and community events mean to realize our feelings, enhance our perceptions, and remind us of the awe and joy of flight through the materiality of art.
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Aussie DC-2 Open Day
A very famous photo as the bogged DC-2 is unstuck by local manpower from the racecourse mud. See a Lego recreation below. [Photo James Kightly Collection.]
As displayed on poles, for a couple of decades. By the end, all was not well. [Photo by Geoff Goodall]
By this stage in the early 2000s, the DC-2 was looking very sad, and suffering badly from rot. [Photo by James Kightly]
A local team member, Geoffrey Ian Reid, recreated the landing (as seen in the period photo above) in Lego bricks! A popular item on the day. [Photo by James Kightly]
We will continue to report on the project and for those able to visit, the next major open day will be the 90th anniversary of the landing, in October 2024. Follow the details on uivermemorial.org.au James Kightly
The original Uiver’s emergency night landing was lit by rounding up the local 1930s cars and shining their headlights onto the racecourse! [Photo by James Kightly]
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Report by Commissioning Editor James Kightly
At Albury airport, NSW, Australia, on Saturday 28 October 2023, the Uiver Restoration Project opened its doors to the public for its major annual open day. The Project is restoring a rare Douglas DC-2 (C/N 1286) which was for many years displayed on poles at the airport. The Douglas airliner has an historic connection to Albury, as KLM’s example, registered PH-AJU, and named ‘Uiver’ (Dutch for stork) made an emergency landing on the town’s racecourse at night in October during the MacRobertson 1934 Mildenhall – Melbourne air race.
At Albury airport, NSW, Australia, on Saturday 28 October 2023, the Uiver Restoration Project opened its doors to the public for its major annual open day. The Project is restoring a rare Douglas DC-2 (C/N 1286) which was for many years displayed on poles at the airport. The Douglas airliner has an historic connection to Albury, as KLM’s example, registered PH-AJU, and named ‘Uiver’ (Dutch for stork) made an emergency landing on the town’s racecourse at night in October during the MacRobertson 1934 Mildenhall – Melbourne air race.
A very famous photo as the bogged DC-2 is unstuck by local manpower from the racecourse mud. See a Lego recreation below. [Photo James Kightly Collection.]
Uiver came second in the race, after the DH 88 Comet racer G-ACSS. While the original Uiver was lost in a fatal accident a scant two months later at Rutbah Wells, Iraq, the impression made of the emergency landing at Albury has had a long legacy in Albury.
As displayed on poles, for a couple of decades. By the end, all was not well. [Photo by Geoff Goodall]
An ex- RAAF DC-2, serial A30-11 (first registered as NC13736 with Eastern Air Lines) was obtained in 1984 by the Rotary Club of West Albury, repainted, and displayed from 1980 in the colors of Uiver. After several decades, unsurprisingly the aircraft’s structure was deteriorating, and it was taken off display in 2002 and left, essentially abandoned, on the airport. Unwanted and a headache for those responsible, a number of suggestions were made over what to do with the aircraft, including cutting off the nose and displaying it in the airport café, and the council tried to dispose of it in 2009.
By this stage in the early 2000s, the DC-2 was looking very sad, and suffering badly from rot. [Photo by James Kightly]
In 2014 the Albury City Council transferred ownership of the plane to the Uiver Memorial Community Trust, and the Uiver Memorial DC-2 Restoration Project was formed, to re-establish the Uiver display at the airport. The vision was to restore the plane to museum standard for static display, in a dedicated hangar. Currently the Project have the aircraft workshop in a former airport paintshop.
A volunteer team have achieved a remarkable transformation, with the rare DC-2 fuselage exterior is now mostly completed. At the open day, there was a healthy public attendance, including the Albury mayor, and many children – which will have swelled the team’s coffers and certainly endorsed their hard work and achievement. A new audio-visual display featuring the 1934 air race was presented; displays by the Albury library / museum, local model airplane and railway clubs, and a presentation of some of the Uiver related artifacts which will feature in the museum being developed alongside the DC-2.
A local team member, Geoffrey Ian Reid, recreated the landing (as seen in the period photo above) in Lego bricks! A popular item on the day. [Photo by James Kightly]
We will continue to report on the project and for those able to visit, the next major open day will be the 90th anniversary of the landing, in October 2024. Follow the details on uivermemorial.org.au James Kightly
The original Uiver’s emergency night landing was lit by rounding up the local 1930s cars and shining their headlights onto the racecourse! [Photo by James Kightly]
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EAA Statement on The Death of Apollo 8 Commander Frank Borman
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PRESS RELEASE
Statement by Jack J. Pelton, CEO and Chairman of the Board of the Experimental Aircraft Association, on the death of Apollo 8 commander and longtime EAA member Frank Borman on November 7, 2023:
“As one of the major players within the Apollo astronaut corps in the 1960s, Frank Borman was a person who seemed larger than life as we followed America’s efforts toward a lunar landing. Frank’s accomplishments, especially the unforgettable moments during the Apollo 8 mission during Christmas time in 1968, puts him among the key figures in our nation’s spaceflight history. We at EAA came to know him for more than 30 years as an enthusiastic aviator and supporter of programs that would build on the legacy of Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo. We were honored in 2018 when Frank donated his personal archives to EAA, which are now on display at the EAA Aviation Museum, and always welcomed him back to Oshkosh when he could join us here. We express our condolences to Frank’s family and many friends, and say to Frank, godspeed and thank you.”
Borman made frequent visits to Oshkosh over the past 30 years, including as part of the Salute to Apollo at the 1994 EAA Fly-In Convention and the Apollo astronaut reunion during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2017. In addition, he was the special guest speaker at the EAA Aviation Museum’s Space Day in 2016, and at the December 2018 Wright Brothers Memorial Banquet following the donation of his personal archives to EAA.
About EAA
The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) is based in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and embodies The Spirit of Aviation through the world’s most engaged community of aviation enthusiasts. EAA’s 270,000 members and 900 local chapters enjoy the fun and camaraderie of sharing their passion for flying, building and restoring recreational aircraft. For more information on EAA and its programs, call 800-JOIN-EAA (800-564-6322) or go to www.eaa.org. For continual news updates, connect with www.twitter.com/EAA.
About EAA Aviation Museum
The EAA Aviation Museum is located just off Interstate 41 at the Highway 44 exit in Oshkosh. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. EAA members receive free museum admission year-round. For more information, call the EAA Aviation Museum at (920) 426-4818 or visit www.EAA.org/museum.
Statement by Jack J. Pelton, CEO and Chairman of the Board of the Experimental Aircraft Association, on the death of Apollo 8 commander and longtime EAA member Frank Borman on November 7, 2023:
“As one of the major players within the Apollo astronaut corps in the 1960s, Frank Borman was a person who seemed larger than life as we followed America’s efforts toward a lunar landing. Frank’s accomplishments, especially the unforgettable moments during the Apollo 8 mission during Christmas time in 1968, puts him among the key figures in our nation’s spaceflight history. We at EAA came to know him for more than 30 years as an enthusiastic aviator and supporter of programs that would build on the legacy of Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo. We were honored in 2018 when Frank donated his personal archives to EAA, which are now on display at the EAA Aviation Museum, and always welcomed him back to Oshkosh when he could join us here. We express our condolences to Frank’s family and many friends, and say to Frank, godspeed and thank you.”
Borman made frequent visits to Oshkosh over the past 30 years, including as part of the Salute to Apollo at the 1994 EAA Fly-In Convention and the Apollo astronaut reunion during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2017. In addition, he was the special guest speaker at the EAA Aviation Museum’s Space Day in 2016, and at the December 2018 Wright Brothers Memorial Banquet following the donation of his personal archives to EAA.
About EAA
The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) is based in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and embodies The Spirit of Aviation through the world’s most engaged community of aviation enthusiasts. EAA’s 270,000 members and 900 local chapters enjoy the fun and camaraderie of sharing their passion for flying, building and restoring recreational aircraft. For more information on EAA and its programs, call 800-JOIN-EAA (800-564-6322) or go to www.eaa.org. For continual news updates, connect with www.twitter.com/EAA.
About EAA Aviation Museum
The EAA Aviation Museum is located just off Interstate 41 at the Highway 44 exit in Oshkosh. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. EAA members receive free museum admission year-round. For more information, call the EAA Aviation Museum at (920) 426-4818 or visit www.EAA.org/museum.
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Blue Angels F8F-2 Bearcat Available at Courtesy Aircraft Sales
Blue Angels Over Corpus Christi. Image via U.S. Navy
Lead Solo Pilot of the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, Commander Frank Weisser participated in a heritage flight alongside an F6F Hellcat and F8F Bearcat aircraft over the Salton Sea and Imperial Valley, March 9, 2017. The Hellcat and Bearcat were the first two aircraft models used by The Blue Angels shortly after the team’s inception in 1946. Photographed by Petty Officer 2nd Class Ian Cotter. Official U.S. Navy Photograph.
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by Adam Estes
If there is a piston-engined fighter-plane which could be described as a hot rod, it would be the Grumman F8F Bearcat. Its small frame, big engine, and incredible handling characteristics have made it a favorite for all those who have flown it. The rare opportunity to purchase one of these magnificent aircraft has appeared, once again, through Courtesy Aircraft Sales, in the form of an F8F-2 painted to represent an example flown by the U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels aerial demonstration team.
If there is a piston-engined fighter-plane which could be described as a hot rod, it would be the Grumman F8F Bearcat. Its small frame, big engine, and incredible handling characteristics have made it a favorite for all those who have flown it. The rare opportunity to purchase one of these magnificent aircraft has appeared, once again, through Courtesy Aircraft Sales, in the form of an F8F-2 painted to represent an example flown by the U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels aerial demonstration team.
The Bearcat on offer at Courtesy was built as construction number D.1162 and accepted by the US Navy as Bureau Number 121776 on November 18, 1948. By this point, the U.S. Navy was already transitioning into jets so, like many other Bearcats, the aircraft remained in Stateside units and aircraft pools, from Fighter Squadron 113 (VF-113) at Naval Air Station San Diego, to Marine Fighter Training Squadron 20 at MCAS Cherry Point, North Carolina, to aircraft reserve pools at NAS Alameda, California, NAS Norfolk, Virginia, and NAS Corpus Christi, Texas. The aircraft was stricken from the Navy’s inventory on January 9, 1957 with only 606 flying hours logged.
On January 22, 1960, BuNo 121776 was acquired by Kaman Aircraft, based out of Bloomfield, Connecticut. The company used this and another surplus F8F-2 (Bu.121707 – now at the Planes of Fame Air Museum) as static wind generators for crosswind helicopter testing. Even though Kaman never flew these F8Fs, they still registered them with the FAA for proof of ownership; Bu.121776 became N1030B and Bu.121707 N1027B.
In 1970, however, Kaman no longer needed their Bearcats, donating them to the United States Marine Corps Museum (now the National Museum of the Marine Corps) in Quantico, Virginia, which preserved them in storage. While Bu.121707 left Quantico in 1978, Bu.121776 remained in storage at Quantico until 1996, when H. Wells purchased the airframe and almost immediately sold it to Air SRV Inc. and the Lone Star Flight Museum in Galveston, Texas.
With the new registration N68RW, Bu.121776 made its first post-restoration flight on January 15, 2003, at Bluebird Aviation in Milton, Florida. The fighter flew in the colors of F8F-1 Bu.94996, an example of the type which once flew with the Blue Angels. The fighter made numerous appearances at air shows across the United States, even competing in the Reno Air Races, with the legendary Nelson Ezell at the controls, although it did not qualify for the Unlimited Class.
With the new registration N68RW, Bu.121776 made its first post-restoration flight on January 15, 2003, at Bluebird Aviation in Milton, Florida. The fighter flew in the colors of F8F-1 Bu.94996, an example of the type which once flew with the Blue Angels. The fighter made numerous appearances at air shows across the United States, even competing in the Reno Air Races, with the legendary Nelson Ezell at the controls, although it did not qualify for the Unlimited Class.
Blue Angels Over Corpus Christi. Image via U.S. Navy
Another highlight in Bu.121776’s airshow days involved the occasions it flew in formation with F/A-18 Hornets serving with the Blue Angels, showcasing the historical legacy of the legendary demonstration team. Founded in 1946, and gaining its name from a New York City nightclub, the Blue Angels originally debuted in June 1946 flying the venerable F6F Hellcat, transitioning just two months later onto the Bearcat. One aspect of the early Blue Angels’ performance was mock dogfights staged between the Hellcats and later the Bearcats with an SNJ Texan trainer painted as an A6M Zero in an all-yellow livery and called the Beetle Bomb. This was later replaced with another Bearcat which inherited the name Beetle Bomb and would also perform in mock dogfights. When the team switched over to the Grumman F9F Panther in 1949, the Beetle Bomb Bearcat was originally kept in as part of the act, but following a fatal accident on April 24, 1950, no other Beetle Bomb was ever used again in the Blue Angels demonstrations.
Lead Solo Pilot of the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, Commander Frank Weisser participated in a heritage flight alongside an F6F Hellcat and F8F Bearcat aircraft over the Salton Sea and Imperial Valley, March 9, 2017. The Hellcat and Bearcat were the first two aircraft models used by The Blue Angels shortly after the team’s inception in 1946. Photographed by Petty Officer 2nd Class Ian Cotter. Official U.S. Navy Photograph.
According to Courtesy Aircraft Sales, there are only 22 Bearcats that exist worldwide, six (6) of them are owned by governments ( Museums), four (4) are in Thailand and two (2) are retained in the United States. There are 16 civilian-owned F8F Bearcats on the planet. Fifteen of the sixteen are maintained in the U.S., but a closer look at ownership details shows seven of them belong to ultra-high-net-worth individuals.
Having been sold to a private owner by the museum, BuNo 121776 is now on the market, and being freshly overhauled, it represents one of the most pristine examples of its kind. Hopefully, the day will come when BuNo 121776 will grace the skies yet again at future airshows.
Having been sold to a private owner by the museum, BuNo 121776 is now on the market, and being freshly overhauled, it represents one of the most pristine examples of its kind. Hopefully, the day will come when BuNo 121776 will grace the skies yet again at future airshows.
For more information about this aircraft for sale, visit Courtesy Aircraft Sales.
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My Dad flew F6F Navy.
D-Day Squadron Announces Participating Aircraft For Their 2024 Legacy Tour
The magnificent formation flight down the Normandy beaches on June 6th, 2019. (Screen Capture of Into Flight Once More – via D-Day Squadron)
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After the successful mission in 2019, the D-Day Squadron – the American contingent of Douglas C-47 and DC-3 transports participating in the celebrations of D-Day and the Berlin Airlift – is preparing to embark upon their journey to Europe to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasions and 75th anniversary of the Berlin Airlift. On May 18, 2024, the D-Day Squadron is expected to depart Oxford-Waterbury Airport in Connecticut and head East to cross the Northern Atlantic along the original Blue Spruce route.
The list of airplanes taking part is changing regularly, as is understandable when juggling such a monumental challenge. Some teams are working to get their aircraft ready to take part, but the complexity of the mission, the logistical challenges, and the enormous costs involved inevitably will keep their participation on hold until months shy of the launch. However, given the difficult socio-economical times we currently live in, the D-Day Squadron is excited to announce that ten historic aircraft will make the journey in 2024. With multiple aircraft still working to prepare, the D-Day Squadron is expected to roll out a second phase of announcements, featuring nearly a dozen historic aircraft involved in the mission. Today’s airplanes announced will be joined by at least three European-based C-47s coming from France, Finland, and Sweden.
“We’re excited to join the D-Day Squadron to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Operation Overlord. As a U.S. Naval aircraft, READY-4-DUTY and her crew are honored to represent the contributions of the U.S. Navy at this historic event,” shared Chris Volpe, Wing Leader, DFW Wing of the Commemorative Air Force. “This will be our first flight mission with the squadron, a great salute to the Greatest Generation who came before us.”
“We’re excited to join the D-Day Squadron to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Operation Overlord. As a U.S. Naval aircraft, READY-4-DUTY and her crew are honored to represent the contributions of the U.S. Navy at this historic event,” shared Chris Volpe, Wing Leader, DFW Wing of the Commemorative Air Force. “This will be our first flight mission with the squadron, a great salute to the Greatest Generation who came before us.”
The magnificent formation flight down the Normandy beaches on June 6th, 2019. (Screen Capture of Into Flight Once More – via D-Day Squadron)
The mission behind the D-Day Squadron’s 2024 Legacy Tour is assembling a collective of international operators of WWII-era aircraft, specifically the DC-3/C-47 type, to honor, pay tribute and commemorate the legacy of the WWII veterans, the Greatest Generation, through Europe. With a focus on both DDay80 and Berlin75, the 2024 Legacy Tour symbolizes a special salute to those who served, sacrificed, and gave so much to our great nations
“Having led the DC-3’s journey to Europe in 2019, the D-Day Squadron earned a global presence that’s provided our organization to grow, multiply our DC-3 connections and even launch the DC-3 Society where we actively aid operators, crews, and enthusiasts with maintenance, operations, airworthiness, and displays,” shared Eric Zipkin, director of operations and mission chief pilot for the D-Day Squadron. “We won the War because of our logistical abilities, it’s only appropriate we, as the stewards of this noble aircraft, continue to fly and maintain the very airframe that was the backbone to achieving victory.”
The aircraft which confirmed their participation as of November 10th commemorating Veterans and Remembrance Day are:
“Having led the DC-3’s journey to Europe in 2019, the D-Day Squadron earned a global presence that’s provided our organization to grow, multiply our DC-3 connections and even launch the DC-3 Society where we actively aid operators, crews, and enthusiasts with maintenance, operations, airworthiness, and displays,” shared Eric Zipkin, director of operations and mission chief pilot for the D-Day Squadron. “We won the War because of our logistical abilities, it’s only appropriate we, as the stewards of this noble aircraft, continue to fly and maintain the very airframe that was the backbone to achieving victory.”
The aircraft which confirmed their participation as of November 10th commemorating Veterans and Remembrance Day are:
- C-47 “Placid Lassie” ( N74589) – Tunison Foundation – USA
- C-47 “That’s All, Brother” ( N74TB) – Commemorative Air Force Centex Wing – USA
- C-47 “ Screaming Eagle” (N150D) – Private Owner – USA
- R4D “ Ready 4 Duty” (151ZE) – Commemorative Air Force Dallas – Ft. Worth Wing – USA
- C-53 “Spirit of Benovia” (N8336C) – Aerometal International – USA
- C-41A “ Hap*penstance” (N341A) – The RM Group, LLC- USA
- DC-3 “Chalair” (F-AZOX) – Private Owner – France
- C-47 “Night Fright” (N308SF) – Night Fright Promotions Ltd – UK
- C-47 “Drag ‘em Oot” (N473DC) – Aero Legends – UK
- C-47 “Pegasus” (G-ANAF) – Aero Legends – UK
In the coming months, special features will be published across the D-Day Squadron’s social media channels on each historic aircraft, their web pages, and more detailed information on aircrews. The D-Day Squadron has plans to announce more aircraft soon, as they continue the 2024 Legacy Tour mission preparations through the end of 2023, and into 2024.
To support the D-Day Squadron’s effort, please visit www.ddaysquadron.org
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