Warbird News

[DaveM]

EAA Vintage to Celebrate the Continental A-40 Engine at AirVenture 2023

By Mark W. Stewart, EAA# 412692 – VAA# 22984 – From an article originally published on www.eaavintage.org

The Vintage Aircraft Association is proud to host a 90th Anniversary celebration of the Continental A-40 engine at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2023. Look for at least a dozen actual A-40 powered aircraft including one flying with a single-bladed Everel propeller. Some of these aircraft will be brought center-stage at Vintage in Review for an in-depth interview with the owners. You’ll also be able to see a cutaway A-40 engine on display in the Vintage Hangar.

When the Continental A-40 engine was introduced in 1931, it changed everything in general aviation. Few people know of the A-40 engine nor of the pivotal role it played. This little engine gave birth to general aviation as we know it today. The 37 hp A-40 completely changed the cost of flying. It was now economical for flight schools to purchase, operate, and maintain these little engines. As the world’s very first horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine, it launched a whole new engine design platform, that is still in production today. The compact design of the A-40 also allowed aircraft designers to reduce the drag of the engine and streamline the entire aircraft to achieve 200 mph for a four-place airplane.​

Prior to the A-40, flight schools were few and far between because they were not profitable. Flying heavy and expensive radial engine-powered planes was only for the rich, especially in the early 1930s and the Great Depression. The lightweight, low-cost A-40 engine, paired with the introduction of lightweight aircraft, changed all of that. Now, for the first-time flight schools could be profitable and the average person could not only afford flying lessons but could also afford to buy their own airplane.

Not only did the A-40 make flying affordable for the general public, but it started a whole new engine design platform, the horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine. The A-40 was the cornerstone engine for all lightweight aircraft engines that followed. Think of the hundreds of thousands of horizontally opposed four-cylinder engines that have been built over the past nine decades and they all owe their start to the A-40. Manufacturers like Piper, Beech, Cessna, Aeronca, Mooney and many more all used flat four-cylinder horizontally opposed engines on their aircraft, from engine makers like Continental, Lycoming, Franklin, and Manasco. Whether four-cylinder, six-cylinder, or even the 400 hp, eight-cylinder horizontally opposed engine, the A-40 is the grandfather of them all.

The A-40 was “the little engine that could” and it did, giving birth to general aviation with 2,500 airplanes in the 1930s. The unique design of the A-40 completely eliminated all other engine designs. The other engines include the three, five, and seven-cylinder radial engines, the in-line four-cylinder engines, the inverted in-line four-cylinder engines, and the two-cylinder horizontally opposed engines. They all disappeared from the lightweight aircraft general aviation market by the early 1950s.​

A-40 Cutaway. Image via EAA Vintage

Aircraft design was radically changed by the A-40 as well. The four-cylinder horizontally opposed engine was a natural fit for the side-by-side seating in airplanes. The design provided an unobstructed view out the front, reduced the drag of the aircraft, and offered a practical environment for flight instruction. Can you picture a five-cylinder radial engine on the nose of a Cessna 172? The inline engines of the day made the nose of the airplane very long, like the inverted 200-hp Ranger on a Fairchild 24. The compact and lightweight design meant that the aircraft designer could substantially shrink the nose area, and the cabin width thereby streamlining the aircraft. These design changes also led to the aerodynamic pressure cowling that is ubiquitous on aircraft today. This pressure cowling enables a four-place airplane to cruise at 200 mph while burning just 18 gph.

Several aircraft makers used the A-40 to power their planes, but none more than Piper Aircraft. Piper, including the Taylor Aircraft Company’s planes, built over 1800 aircraft with the A-40 engine from 1931 to mid-1938. Taylor started the Taylorcraft Aviation Company and produced 606 Taylorcraft Model A’s powered by the A-40. In total, Continental manufactured over 2,600 engines which launched the lightweight aircraft industry that we know today.

Stop in the Vintage Hangar and see a cutaway of the A-40 engine and learn more about its history. Also, be sure and walk through the first row of Vintage Aircraft parking and inspect more than a dozen A-40 powered aircraft from the 1930s, Cubs, Taylorcrafts, and Heaths, all flown into Oshkosh for your enjoyment.​

To learn more and support EAA Vintage, visit www.eaavintage.org​

The Golden Age Air Museum in Bethel, Pennsylvania, rescued and restored this rare Taylor E-2 Cub to flying condition. It is one of the oldest of the type in existence. Image via Wikipedia

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[CarlS]

The recovery operation was a coordinated effort between the Sheriff Dept Marine Patrol and local sport boat owners. Both were outstanding.

View attachment 54520View attachment 54519


@CarlS - You need to be there next year.

I will plan on it. That's Lake Dora, right?

 

[DoorPosition]

I will plan on it. That's Lake Dora, right?

Indeed.

 

[CarlS]

 

[DaveM]

Shuttleworth Collection’s 2023 Season Premier Airshow

by Nigel Hitchman

Celebrating the coronation of King Charles III from the previous day, the Shuttleworth Collection held their Season Premier Airshow, with the theme of King and Country, at their home field in Old Warden, Bedfordshire on May 7th, 2023.

We had a great day to open the UK air show season; with light winds and lots of sunshine it was almost perfect. That being said, the significant rain events over the previous two days left the runway too soft for the operation of heavier like the Collection’s Spitfire and Hurricane.

The show opened with three of the Collection’s stars: de Havilland DH.88 Comet Grosvenor House (G-ACSS), Percival Mew Gull (G-AEXF) and Miles Hawk Speed Six (G-ADGP). Grosvenor House is arguably the most historic airworthy aircraft on the globe, due to its participation and victory in the epic 1934 MacRobertson Trophy air race between Mildenhall, England and Melbourne, Australia. The Mew Gull has a similar pedigree, with the legendary Alex Henshaw setting the fastest roundtrip time for the London-to-Capetown route (12,754 miles in 4 days, 10 hours and 16 minutes) in 1938, a record which stood for more than 70 years. The historic trio made a few superb formation flypasts, followed by single displays from each aircraft.​

de Havilland DH.88 Comet (G-ACSS) leading Miles M2L Hawk Speed Six (G-ADGP) and Percival Mew Gull (G-AEXF. (photo by Nigel Hitchman)

Next came a display from the collection’s original Bristol F2B Fighter, followed by the de Havilland Chipmunk WP903 in the colours which it wore when King Charles III learned to fly in this same airframe during the 1960s.​

An original Bristol F.2B which served in the Royal Flying Corps and RAF as B1162. (photo by Nigel Hitchman)

The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight‘s Avro Lancaster B.I PA474 had been scheduled to lead the massed flypast over Buckingham Palace following King Charles’ Coronation on the previous day. Although its participation in that historic event was scrubbed due to poor weather, it certainly didn’t disappoint us at Shuttleworth. The Lancaster’s crew made perfect use of the curved display line at Old Warden, giving us three fantastic passes at a perfect height, with the wonderful music from its four Rolls-Royce Merlin engines offering a magical accompaniment. It was probably the best Lancaster display I have ever seen in my 50 years of airshow attendance.​

The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’s Avro Lancaster B.I PA474. (photo by Nigel Hitchman)

In total contrast, the next two displays featured a superb aerobatic display from the vintage Czech Lunak glider followed by the display debut for the civilian-owned Westland Lynx AH.7, a former British Army Air Corps helicopter. North Weald Flying Services recently restored the Lynx to flying condition for its owner Graham Hinkley. Amazingly, this helicopter is now 45 years old, having first flown in 1978!​

Letov LF-107 Lunak glider (CK-0927). (photo by Nigel Hitchman)

Varying the display again, we next had two unique aircraft: DH.51 G-EBIR (currently the world’s oldest de Havilland design flying) alongside the sole airworthy Avro 621 Tutor (K3241/G-AHSA). While these two made some elegant formation passes, a Chipmunk with red white and blue streamers performed aerobatics overhead.​

deHavilland DH.51 Moth (G-EBIR) leading former RAF Avro 621 Tutor K3241 (G-AHSA). (photo by Nigel Hitchman)

Fairey Swordfish Mk.I W5856 (G-BMGC) from Navy Wings was another highlight at the show, the biplane torpedo bomber making its first display at Shuttleworth for a number of years – now as a civilian-operated aircraft, rather than with the Royal Navy Historic Flight of old. As the Swordfish performed, the air show commentator interviewed 99-year old David Berry, who shared stories about his WWII experiences flying with the Fleet Air Arm as a gunner/observer in the Swordfish. In addition to the Swordfish, Navy Wings also brought along their former Royal Navy Stinson Reliant as a support aircraft; it was great to see it arrive and depart – and on static display.​

Fairey Swordfish W5856 operated by Navy Wings. (photo by Nigel Hitchman)

Next up was a red, white and blue tribute to the King’s coronation, with the red Southern Martlet (G-AAYX), the white DH.60X Hermes Moth (G-EBWD) and David Cyster’s blue DH.82 Tiger Moth (G-ANRF) executing some nice three-ship formation flypasts, followed by a tail-chase.​

deHavilland DH.60X Hermes Moth G-EBWD leading Southern Martlet G-AAYX (in red) and.deHavilland DH.82 Tiger Moth G-ANRF (blue). (photo by Nigel Hitchman)

More Shuttleworth regulars followed, with the Gloster Gladiator, Westland Lysander and Sopwith Triplane each displaying individually. While the Avro 504K took off, it had a fuel mixture issue and landed immediately after takeoff. We were then treated to a display from Graham Saw flying the open-frame Eon Primary glider (towed aloft behind a Piper Super Cub). While he was under tow, the Polikarpov Po-2, newly adorned with Ukrainian flags, gave us some nice flypasts.​

The Shuttleworth Collection’s Gloster Gladiator Mk.I K7985 (G-AMRK). (photo by Nigel Hitchman)

It was also great to see the Royal Aircraft Factory SE5A join up with the Collection’s Sopwith Pup for a few formation fly-bys, something which doesn’t often happen with Shuttleworth’s WWI-era aircraft.​

The Shuttleworth Collection’s Royal Aircraft Factory SE5a (G-EBIA) served in the Royal Flying Corps as F904. (photo by Nigel Hitchman)

After an interlude with a performance from the British Army’s Red Devils parachute display team, it was time for the “Edwardians” to take to the skies, a highlight for many at the show. For those readers perhaps perplexed by the term “Edwardians,” this moniker refers collectively to the group of aircraft at Shuttleworth with designs which fall within the reign of King Edward VII (1901 to 1910). These aircraft are fragile, and incredibly sensitive to even light breezes, which means that the public only rarely gets the opportunity to seem them perform. With favorable weather on the day and pilots needing to remain current, we were treated to two displays each from the Bristol Boxkite and Avro Triplane replicas. In between these flights, the unique English Electric Wren trundled up and down the runway attempting to get airborn on its 8hp engine, the soft ground not helping. Eventually the Wren made it up for a short circuit inside the northern end of the airfield to then land in the opposite direction.​

The Shuttleworth Collection’s Bristol Boxkite replica (G-ASPP). (photo by Nigel Hitchman)

The weather on May 7th was almost perfect, but with the windsock still moving around, jostled by light thermals and gusts, the conditions slightly exceeded the 5 knot limit for the Blériot and Deperdussin. Although the two ancient aircraft were at the end of the runway, ready to start, they were unable to launch, with their performances left for another day.​

English Electric Wren (G-EBNV) comes in to land. The Shuttleworth Collection’s Blériot XI and Deperdussin monoplanes sit in the background, awaiting their turn to fly. Sadly the slightly gusty condition’s made it unsafe to fly these fragile, original airframes, so they will have to wait until the next event to have an opportunity to stretch their wings. (photo by Nigel Hitchman)

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Many thanks indeed to Nigel Hitchman for his wonderful report and spectacular images. For those interested in seeing the next display at Old Warden, the Shuttleworth Collection will be hosting another air show on May 20th, 2023.​

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[DaveM]

Lecture and Book Signing with Author of New William E. Boeing Biography

PRESS RELEASE

On May 20 Seattle author David D. Williams will shed new light on William E. Boeing’s life during a 2 p.m. lecture based upon his new book, The William E. Boeing Story – A Gift of Flight. Williams was granted unprecedented access to the Boeing family archives to create an extraordinarily vivid and accurate portrait of this influential yet private man who founded the aviation company recognized everywhere. A book signing follows the lecture and Q and A. Books are available at The Museum of Flight Store.

Author David Williams is the executive director of the Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum in Kent, Wash. He has been involved in powerboat racing his whole life. He has written extensively about motorsports and aviation. The William E. Boeing Story is his tenth book.

Image: The original Boeing Company factory, 1917. The building is currently at The Museum of Flight. Photo courtesy The Boeing Collection at The Museum of Flight.

About The Museum of Flight

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

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

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

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[DaveM]

Restoring an Icon: A Boeing FB-5 Biplane

The San Diego Air & Space Museum is in the final stages of restoring an FB-5 biplane, the first airplane designed and built specifically for use on an aircraft carrier. The origins of the FB-5 can be traced to one of the greatest aircraft of the First World War: the Fokker D.VII fighter of Germany. After studying the excellent qualities of that legendary aircraft, Seattle’s Boeing Airplane Company produced the PW-9, a nimble fighter introduced to the US Army Air Service in 1923.​

USMC Naval variant, Boeing FB-5 of VM-3M . Image via Wikipedia

Impressed with the PW-9, the Navy ordered ten virtually identical FB-1s, though not equipped for use on aircraft carriers. Eventually, the design evolved to allow for the rigors of flying from aircraft carriers. The fuselage and landing gear were strengthened, a tail hook was added and, with the FB-5, the wings were staggered to allow for greater pilot visibility and the rudder was redesigned for improved stability.

The FB-5 made its first flight on October 7, 1926 and twenty-seven were delivered to the Navy on January 21, 1927. The delivery was unique in itself: standard procedure had been to either truck the aircraft or assemble and fly them off. However, each FB-5 was stood on its nose on a dolly, rolled out of the Boeing factory, and placed on a barge in Seattle Harbor that took them to the awaiting carrier USS Langley. Therefore, each FB-5 made its maiden flight from the Langley’s deck.​

Photo via San Diego Air & Space Museum

Though a satisfactory fighter, the FB-5 fell victim to the Navy’s move in the 1930s towards air-cooled engines exclusively for carrier-based aircraft. After only a few years in carrier service, the FB-5s were passed to the Marine Corps for use with shore-based squadrons.

The basic structure of the Museum’s FB-5 restoration project arrived at Gillespie Field in 2012 from Fred Peters of Corona, California. It was an incomplete tubular steel fuselage, partially complete lower wings, upper wing ribs, and various detail parts, most of which were reproductions. There only a few detail parts in the aircraft that are original. No decision has been made as to where the completed aircraft will be permanently displayed.

Four examples of the FB-5 exist today: one at the San Diego Air & Space Museum, one at the National Air and Space Museum, one at the Marine Corps Museum at Quantico, and one at the Planes of Fame Museum at Chino. To support the museum and its restoration projects, visit www.sandiegoairandspace.org​

Photo via San Diego Air & Space Museum

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[DaveM]

The Dambusters Raid – 80th Anniversary Commemorations

With the 80th anniversary of the legendary ‘Dambusters Raid‘ fast approaching, the Royal Air Force’s Battle of Britain Memorial Flight has begun taking part in commemorative activities both in Britain and overseas. On May 4th, the Flight’s Avro Lancaster B.I (PA474) made a journey over the Netherlands and Belgium to commemorate Operation Manna, but symbolically also retracing parts of the route which Lancasters from RAF No.617 Squadron took on their way in and out of Germany to attack hydroelectric dams in the Rhur River Valley on the night of May 16th/17th, 1943.​

A 617 Squadron Lancaster (belonging to Wing Commander Guy Gibson) loaded with one of the special bouncing bombs, codenamed Upkeep, during training for the Dams Raid. (image via Imperial War Museum)

The highly-modified Lancasters which took part in that raid employed a radical new weapon designed to skip over the water and then sink and explode at a given depth right beside the dam wall, using the water’s mass to focus the explosive force against the structure and thus fracture it. The daring, low-level raid succeeded in breaching two of the four dams attacked, and caused considerable damage to a third. While the deluge of water from the burst dams across the Eder and Möhne rivers caused significant turmoil and interrupted Germany’s manufacturing capacity for some time, there is still some debate about the level of this disruption, not to mention the human price involved on both sides. Even so, the brazen daring and ingenuity of the attack caught the world’s attention; perhaps most importantly, its success had a massive positive effect on morale back in Britain while also strengthening respect for the RAF’s capabilities amongst the nation’s allies.​

A graphic depiction for how the bouncing bomb worked during the attacks on the Mohne & Eder dams. (image via IWM)

The 1955 film, The Dam Busters, based upon Paul Brickhill’s book of the same name, immortalized the raid on the silver screen, and its regular airing on television in subsequent decades has etched the events of May 16th/17th, 1943 on the public’s consciousness in Britain ever since. This is partly why the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’s Avro Lancaster holds a cherished place in the minds of so many. When the Lancaster is serviceable, it usually performs at public events around the anniversary of Operation Chastise (the raid’s official codename) and 2023 will be no exception, albeit with a slightly different focus.​

A Lancaster bomber aircraft from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) soars over the Derwent Valley Dam in Derbyshire. The famous ‘Dambusters’ of the RAF’s 617 Squadron trained in this valley during the Second World War for their mission. This image was captured on the 65th anniversary of the Dams Raid during 2008. Sadly, this scene will not be repeated during the 80th anniversary commemorations of the raid this year. (image by Sgt Graham Spark RAF via Wikimedia)

In previous years, the aircraft has flown low over the Derwent Dam in Derbyshire, since the structure featured prominently in 617 Squadron’s training for the attack back in 1943. However, perhaps oddly, such a flypast has been ruled out for this year according to BBMF social media postings, because local authorities have not organized an event to handle the anticipated heavy traffic load which such a flight would inevitably provoke. That being said, on the evening of May 16th, the Lancaster is scheduled to perform flypasts over each of the relevant WWII RAF Bomber Command airfields in Lincolnshire, as well as the former RAF Hendon, in London. The image below shows the RAF Stations (both current and former) which should see the Lancaster fly overhead on May 16th.

The Lancaster is also scheduled to attend numerous events during the 2023 air show season, with the Dam’s Raid likely to feature heavily in announcer commentary.​

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[DaveM]

People’s Mosquito Receives Major Sponsorship From Airbus

The People’s Mosquito, the organization which has made impressive strides in its effort to build an airworthy de Havilland Mosquito for the UK, has just announced a major, three-year sponsorship deal from European aerospace giant, Airbus. This in addition to the manufacturer’s earlier contributions, and offers a significant boost to the project’s aim. The press release continues as follows…​

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Additional financial backing from the aerospace giant represents a significant step forward in delivering the first de Havilland DH.98 Mosquito to be manufactured in the UK for more than 72 years.

“Naturally, we’re excited and proud to be able to announce this additional support from Airbus. Such a high-profile industry name provides a significant boost to our efforts to deliver an airworthy Mosquito FB.VI to UK and European skies by 2027,” said John Lilley, Managing Director of The People’s Mosquito.

Jeremy Greaves, Vice President Corporate Affairs and Strategy, Airbus UK, said: “Airbus is honoured to partner with The People’s Mosquito to tell the incredible tale of an aircraft that pioneered new approaches to composite design, becoming an unlikely predecessor of today’s commercial fleet. The Mosquito’s wooden natural composite structure – born from wartime necessity – provided the world of early 1940s aviation with a fast, strong and light airframe that continues to inspire the steps we take in designing and manufacturing composite wings here in the UK. As the Airbus Broughton Factory drives the future of wing innovation, it is bolstered by a legacy owed to the 96 Mosquitos built there by talented designers and manufacturers at the cutting edge of technology more than three quarters of a century ago. We are proud to collaborate with The People’s Mosquito in telling this story.”​

The molds for the People’s Mosquito are nearly ready for construction of the aircraft’s fuselage to begin. (image via People’s Mosquito)

Production of the wooden wonder was transferred in 1948 to Hawarden, now Airbus’ Broughton site, where the last Mosquito ever built in the UK, rolled out of the facility in November 1950. Hawker Siddeley Aviation went on to acquire de Havilland in 1960, before it became a founding member of British Aerospace (BAe), subsequently, BAE Systems which was a 20% shareholder in Airbus until 2006.​

A production line for de Havilland Mosquito fuselages. (image via People’s Mosquito)

“We believe the Mosquito to be an exemplar of British aeronautical design excellence – an engineering pedigree that Airbus carries forward today. The laminated structure of our aircraft was the forerunner of the composite materials used by Airbus today in their aircraft, spacecraft and satellites, so there is great synergy,” added John Lilley.

“We continue to engage with Airbus, and this new three-year commitment from them at a higher level of financial support will be highly valuable as our restoration progresses. These are exciting times and we hope to see other major commercial sponsors join us over the coming months, adding to the incredible support we are seeing from the general public.”​

The production of horizontal stabilizers for the de Havilland Mosquito at Hooper’s, the famous bespoke coachbuilders at Park Royal in Northwest London. (image via People’s Mosquito)

The Airbus facility in Broughton has yet another link to the Mosquito. When the prototype W4050 had finished her flying career (and surviving a few temporary storage locations) she was saved from the scrapyard by being secretly stored at the Broughton site until she was handed over to the de Havilland Aircraft Museum at Salisbury Hall in London Colney, where she was developed and assembled.

The People’s Mosquito is part-way through the initial stages of the aircraft’s build, with the level of fundraising ultimately affecting the build time. The project is being funded by corporate and individual donations, while the charity also raises funds from commercial activities. Updates are issued on a regular basis, so if you would like to be kept informed, please sign-up for the organization’s email newsletter via their website: www.thepeoplesmosquito.org ​

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For any business interested in following Airbus’ lead in supporting this worthy project, please contact The People’s Mosquito team via: [email protected]

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[DaveM]

2023 AirVenture Warbirds in Review Program Announced

PRESS RELEASE

Warbirds in Review, an unparalleled presentation series during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh that brings together historic airplanes with pilots and aircraft owners, returns in 2023 with guests that encompass 80 years of aviation and military history. The 70th edition of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s fly-in convention is July 24-30 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh.​

The twice-daily series of “up close and personal” stories will be held July 24-29 at the Warbirds in Review aircraft ramp, located within the EAA Warbirds of America area on the AirVenture grounds. The series is open to all attending AirVenture.​

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“Warbirds in Review features veterans, aviation legends, and aircraft that simply cannot be seen together in one place anywhere else in the world,” said Connie Bowlin, past president of the EAA Warbirds of America, who organizes the series. “Many of these veterans maintain that they were just doing their jobs and nothing heroic or extraordinary, but that could not be farther from the truth. Their stories and unique perspectives on the aircraft showcased at Oshkosh are insightful, poignant, and important for the public to hear.”​

The aircraft and personalities at Warbirds in Review this year include four World War II veterans, two from the Korean War, five from the Vietnam War, and one from military actions in Afghanistan. The schedule as of May 1, 2023 (subject to change without notice):

Monday, July 24

• 10 a.m.: Piper L-4 Grasshopper “Rosie the Rocketer” with Rob Collings, Joe Scheil, Carol Carpenter Apacki, and Jim Busha
• 1 p.m.: Walt Ohlrich’s North American SNJ-N502, with John “Pappy” Mazza

Tuesday, July 25

• 10 a.m.: McDonnell Douglas F-18 Hornet and Naval Aircraft Factory N3N, with Tammie Jo Shults
• 1 p.m.: P-51B and P-51D “Old Crow” Mustangs, with Brig. Gen. C.E. “Bud” Anderson

Wednesday, July 26

• 10 a.m.: Stinson L-5 Sentinel “Miss Beverly,” with Steve Seal and Chad Hill.
• 1 p.m.: P-51C “Thunderbird” and Republic P-47D-23R, with Warren Pietsch and Bruce Eames

Thursday, July 27

• 10 a.m.: Vought F4U-7 Corsair “Devotion,” with Adam Makos, Lt. JG Sam Clauzel, and Col. Joe McPhail
• 1 p.m.: Cessna L-19 Bird Dogs and North American T-28 Trojan, with Capt. Phil Phillips and Jim Hogdon

Friday, July 28

• 10 a.m.: MiG-21 and A-4B Skyhawk, with Cmdr. Randy “Duke” Cunningham and Cmdr. William “Willy Irish” Driscoll
• 12:45 p.m.: Huey N14SD, Hughes TH-55, and Bell H13, with Maj. Gen. Patrick Brady (followed by veterans salute and veterans flightline parade to Boeing Plaza, sponsored by American Airlines)

Saturday, July 29

• 10 a.m.: B-25 with Maj. John “Lucky” Luckadoo, Staff Sgt. Robert Holmstrom, and Lt. Carl Verbanac
• 1 p.m.: North American P-51C “Tuskegee Airmen” Red Tail Mustang, with Lt. Col. George Hardy, Lt. Col. James Harvey, and Brig, Gen. Enoch O. Woodhouse, II

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About EAA AirVenture Oshkosh

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is “The World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration” and EAA’s membership convention. Additional information, including advance ticket and camping purchase, is available at www.EAA.org/airventure. For more information on EAA and its programs, call 800-JOIN-EAA (800-564-6322) or visit www.EAA.org. Immediate news is available at www.twitter.com/EAA.​

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[DaveM]

American Airpower Museum’s WWII Aircraft Joining Jones Beach Air Show

PRESS RELEASE

In observance of Memorial Day, the American Airpower Museum continues its annual Arsenal of Democracy Warbird events, with vintage military aircraft performing aerial demonstrations on Friday, May 26th, and over Jones Beach on Saturday, May 27th, and Sunday, May 28th. AAM’s warbirds include a B-25 Mitchell Bomber, Douglas C-47 Skytrain troop transport, Grumman TBM Avenger Torpedo Bomber, North American P-51D Mustang Fighter, and two AT-6 Texan trainers. Once again, three visiting Navy EA-18G Growlers will be parked on AAM’s ramp, subject to other military commitments.

If you can’t make it to Jones Beach, watch these awe-inspiring aircraft as they take off to perform practice flybys over Republic Airport all day on Friday, May 26th. Get up close and personal with these historic bombers and fighters of yesteryear! Then join us at AAM to catch even more aerial action on Saturday, May 27th and Sunday, May 28th, as they take off to perform in the air show! Flight experiences are also available each day on one of AAM’s AT-6 Texans plus the red WACO Biplane! Park for FREE in AAM’s lot or along New Highway. Food and Ice Cream trucks will be available onsite. AAM is also open Monday, Memorial Day, closing at 4:00 p.m.

According to AAM President Jeff Clyman, the goal for this three-day extravaganza is two-fold. “To honor the men and women of the ‘Greatest Generation’ who built, maintained and piloted the iconic warbirds of yesteryear, in a bold defense of freedom during World War II, as well as active-duty military, reservists and the national guard, who continue this mission to our present day.” Clyman said that public support strengthens AAM’s mission to educate the next generation about American military aviation history, and also helps maintain the museum’s iconic aircraft. “Help keep ‘em flying,” he added.​

The museum’s TBM was built by GM in 1944-45 when local Grumman production transitioned to mass producing the F6F “Hellcat”

As a special promotion, every paying museum guest (18 and over) throughout Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, is entitled to win a Cockpit USA “made in the USA” leather flight jacket. Cockpit USA, the sponsor of the American Airpower Museum, is an official supplier to the United States Air Force of A-2 leather flight jackets!

Hours for all three days are 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. No tickets or preregistration are required. Regular admission is $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and veterans, and $12 for children ages 5-12. Arrive early and stay all day. Three days of action guaranteed to thrill aviation fans of all ages! Don’t forget your cameras or smartphones. The American Airpower Museum at Republic Airport, Hangar 3, 1230 New Highway, Farmingdale, NY 11735.

The American Airpower Museum is an aviation museum located on the landmarked former site of Republic Aviation at Republic Airport, Farmingdale, NY. The Museum maintains a collection of aviation artifacts and an array of aircraft spanning the many years of the aircraft factory’s history. The Museum is a 501 (c) (3) Nonprofit Educational Foundation Chartered by the New York State Board of Regents. For more information, visit www.americanairpowermuseum.com​

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[DaveM]

B-29 Doc History Restored Tour to Land at The Nebraska State Fly-In

PRESS RELEASE

The B-29 Doc History Restored Tour will land at the Nebraska State Fly-In 2023 in June at Grand Island Central Regional Airport. B-29 Doc, one of only two B-29 Superfortress aircraft still airworthy and flying today, will arrive in Grand Island Thursday, June 1, and will be available for B-29 Flight Experience Rides Friday, June 2, along with ground and cockpit tours and B-29 rides during the fly-in event on Saturday, June 3.​

“The Central Nebraska Regional Airport is thrilled to host B-29 Doc,” said Mike Olson, executive airport director. “This aircraft will be the centerpiece of our airshow that will draw spectators from all across Nebraska just to view this historic aircraft.”

B-29 Doc Flight Experience tickets are on sale now for the tour event at the Grand Island Central Regional Airport and Nebraska State Fly-In. Information about rides and flight ticket information can be found here: www.b29doc.com/rides.

“We are honored to be among the participants in the 2023 Nebraska State Fly-In to promote aviation in Nebraska and to spark inspiration for future aviators,” said Josh Wells, B-29 Doc executive director. “Nebraska has a rich aviation heritage, including being home to one of four manufacturing plants that built B-29 aircraft during World War II. We are looking forward to sharing the experience of an up-close and personal view of a B-29 with our friends in Nebraska.”

For questions about the Nebraska State Fly-In, visit: www.nebraskaaviationcouncil.org

Event Details for the B-29 Doc History Restored Tour in Grand Island

B-29 Doc will arrive at the Grand Island Central Regional Airport Thursday, June 1. B-29 Doc Flight Experience rides will be available June 2, 3 and 4, with ground and cockpit tours available during the Fly-In air show event, Saturday, June 3 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For details about B-29 Doc Flight Experience Rides, visit www.b29doc.com/rides.​

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[DoorPosition]

The Shuttleworth Collection’s unique de Havilland DH.88 Comet ‘Grosvenor House’ is scheduled to perform at their 2023 display season opener on May 7th. (image via Wikimedia)

That plane looks fast as all get-out.

 

[DaveM]

National WASP WWII Museum Homecoming 2023

by Erin Miller

“Oh wow!” a kid yelled as he sprinted against the gusting wind towards the runway at Avenger Field while staring up at a Boeing B-29 Superfortress on final approach in late April, 2023. The WWII bomber’s four, powerful radial engines drowned out the rest of the kid’s enthusiastic shouts as the B-29 passed by and touched down; Doc had arrived! Gusty conditions and blowing sand are not unusual to Sweetwater, Texas, where Avenger Field is located. Most of the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) trained here during World War II. Having some of the historic warbirds flying at the field for the annual homecoming event of the National WASP WWII Museum makes one appreciate the sort of conditions those brave women, including my grandmother Elaine Danforth Harmon, learned to fly in. The weather was not ideal for this year’s event, but even so, there were excellent representatives of the WWII warbird era on hand, including Doc (one of just two airworthy B-29s in the world), B-25J Devil Dog, C-47 That’s All Brother, BT-13s, T-6s, Stinsons, and the only Curtiss SBC2-5 Helldiver presently flying in the world. Furthermore, the museum also announced their acquisition of a T-6 Texan to join its BT-13.​

Doc on the ramp at Avenger field during the National WASP WWII Museum’s homecoming weekend and fly-in. (photo by Erin Miller)

Of the 1,102 women who served as WASP, sadly only about a dozen are still with us, and these survivors were too frail to attend the annual gathering. So the WASP Museum’s Homecoming event is now championed by the descendants of this trailblazing group of female aviators, present-day pilots, and fans of WASP history, all of whom are committed to carrying on and teaching the WASP legacy. The museum has grown in recent years, and now includes a second building where WASP artifacts are displayed and archived; the new structure also houses exhibits to honor subsequent pilots who expanded the legacy established by the WASP.

The focus for this year’s fundraising dinner centered upon the 30th anniversary of the Department of Defense’s landmark decision formally allowing woman to fly in combat. This change also meant that women could fly both fighter and bomber aircraft types in combat alongside their male counterparts. Museum board member and retired USAF F-16 combat pilot and Thunderbird, Caroline “Blaze” Jensen, introduced Sharon “Betty” Preszler for the keynote speech and shared how her own U.S. Air Force was connected from the WASP through this interim group of women who flew combat missions. Dinner guests then watched alongside Betty and Major General Jeannie Leavitt as a video played which documented their flying careers, along with the story of retired Colonel Martha McSally. These three pilots stood at the press conference in 1993 when the Air Force announced its policy change; they went on to fly the F-16, F-15, and A-10 in combat – about 50 years after the WASP had first trained in Army planes.​

Devyn “Stray” Reilly (left) and the article’s author with the National WASP WWII Museum’s BT-13. (photo by Erin Miller)

Support for the WASP history came from across the aviation community and was evident throughout the weekend. The event featured a live charity auction to support the museum. The auction included a reveal for a new wrist watch which the Abingdon Company has created to honor the WASP legacy. Two of the donated watches made their “first flight” earlier that day in the Museum’s BT-13. The auction also included an exquisite, handmade propeller from Culver Props depicting the WASP mascot “Fifinella”. The aircrew from the visiting B-29 and B-25 bombers each donated a slot aboard a flight experience ride in their aircraft. Indeed everyone who attended the event in their warbirds and vintage planes happily chatted with visitors about aviation history. Event attendees could book rides aboard some of these visiting aircraft or have a tour aboard and learn about other historical types. The homecoming event also featured lectures and authors signings for books written about the WASP and other aviation-themed topics. A significant contingent of women who had become some of the first female pilots in the U.S. armed forces during the 1970s and 1980s came to honor the service of the WASP, some of them never having been to the museum before. The museum also held memorial services for two WASP, Susie Winston Bain and Jean Harman, whose ashes were spread across Avenger Field. Per Jean Harmon’s wishes, Jan Johnson, dispersed her mentor’s ashes, mingled with flower petals, from the rear of the AT-6 Texan.​

Flying past the National WASP WWII Museum at Avenger Field in Sweetwater, Texas in the museum’s BT-13. (photo by Erin Miller)

I learned from my grandmother that her fellow aviators in the WASP program wanted formal recognition for their particular place in aviation and women’s history – not because they believed themselves more important than others, but because they knew that if history forgot those who broke barriers it would impose an additional burden on those who follow, making it harder for them to push the envelope further. Fortunately, young people are especially (and naturally) inspired by the story of the Women Airforce Service Pilots – the challenge is ensuring that they are exposed to it. The National WASP WWII Museum staff and volunteers are dedicated to preserving the WASP legacy and work throughout the year to plan this annual event. The Homecoming Weekend featured a ‘kids zone’ with STEM learning activities which, of course, included details about the WASP. As I gave a presentation about my book, Final Flight Final Fight, which chronicles the journey to honor my grandmother and the WASP at Arlington National Cemetery, one young girl sat in the front row with her copy of my children’s book, What Grandma Did, absorbing all of the information I discussed – despite the talk being targeted for adults. A few days later, her mother sent a video showing her daughter reading What Grandma Did aloud to her classmates. I can only imagine my grandmother’s happiness in knowing that young children are not only learning about her service, but they are also teaching their friends and even their teachers about this important time in history!

Because poor weather prevented her flying to Avenger Field, my friend Allyssa (known to many by her social media handle as @FlyAllyssato), ended up driving the twelve hour journey to Sweetwater to ensure she arrived in time for the festivities. “Being at WASP homecoming and being on the field where they trained gives me goosebumps just thinking about it. I’m thankful for the women who stepped out of line and did what others didn’t think possible,” she said. The National WASP WWII Museum is determined to preserve, promote and advocate for the important legacy which WASP personnel left the nation. The Homecoming Weekend plays an important part in that mission, both raising funds and public awareness, so be sure to keep an eye open for the announcement of their 2024 homecoming weekend and fly-in via their website waspmuseum.org and social media.​

Boeing B-29 Superfortress Doc coming in to land at Avenger Field in Sweetwater, Texas to take part in the WASP Museum Homecoming event on April 28th, 2023. (photo by Erin Miller)

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[DaveM]

What Education Is Needed to Become a Military Pilot: A List of Universities

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

Are you dreaming of a career in the military as a fighter pilot or helicopter pilot? If so, then you are going to need specific education and qualifications to get there. And while becoming a military pilot may have its challenges, we can give you a roadmap of just what universities will provide the training needed to make your military flying dreams come true! Let’s dive right in and explore what it takes—and where—to become an accomplished pilot in the armed forces.

Why become a military pilot?

Are you tired of the mundane routine of a typical office job? Do you crave the thrill of adventure and the rush of adrenaline? Well, have no fear because becoming a military pilot might just be the answer to your high-flying dreams. Not only will you become a part of a prestigious group of aviators, but you’ll also have the opportunity to travel the world, experience new cultures, and potentially save lives while you’re at it. Plus, who doesn’t want to wear a super cool flight suit and impress their friends with stories of flying at supersonic speeds? So, buck up, buttercup, and prepare for takeoff on an exciting career path in the skies.

The benefits of being a military pilot

Flying high, getting paid, and serving your country – being a military pilot has never been cooler. With breathtaking views from the cockpit and the thrill of soaring through the clouds, it’s like having your own private rollercoaster in the sky. But the benefits don’t stop there. You’ll also receive top-notch training, advanced technology, and opportunities to travel the world. Plus, the sense of pride and purpose that comes with serving your country is priceless.

Need help getting into the aviation program university of your dreams?

Attention aspiring aviators! If you have lofty dreams of flying high in the sky, then you better start polishing up your writing skills!

Getting into the top aviation program of your choice requires an outstanding admissions essay. Lucky for you, Edubirdie is here to save the day with their top-notch university assignment help for students. No need to stress about nailing that essay, just leave it up to the pros so you can focus on your real passion: planes, planes, planes! So what are you waiting for? Contact Edubirdie today and soar into your dream program with ease. Trust us, the only turbulence you’ll encounter is from the breathtaking views up in the clouds!

Top universities for becoming a military pilot

1. The U.S. Air Force Academy

If you’ve always dreamed of soaring through the skies like a superhero, then the U.S. Air Force Academy should be at the top of your list. Not only is it the top university for becoming a military pilot, but it also offers a world-class education that will prepare you for anything life throws your way (except maybe a flock of birds). And let’s be real, who wouldn’t want to wear a flight suit and have their own Top Gun moment?

1. The Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

With its top-notch aviation programs and commitment to training the best of the best, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is a no-brainer for anyone aspiring to become a military pilot. Not only do they have state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty, but they also have a reputation for producing some of the most capable pilots out there.

1. California Polytechnic State University

If you’re looking to soar through the skies like a majestic bird of prey, then California Polytechnic State University just might be your ticket to the cockpit. This top-notch institution boasts a strong aviation program, as well as proximity to numerous military bases that are just itching for talented pilots to join their ranks.

1. The Liberty University

Liberty is offering a special program just for you as you navigate your way through the skies. With state-of-the-art flight simulators and experienced instructors, Liberty’s aviation program will take your training to new heights (literally). Plus, you’ll have the added bonus of studying at a university founded on the principles of faith and freedom.

1. Purdue University

With Purdue’s top-notch aviation program and state-of-the-art facilities, you’ll be soaring through the skies in no time. Don’t believe me? Just ask Neil Armstrong, a Purdue alum who went on to fly far beyond the reaches of Earth. And who knows, maybe one day you’ll be the one piloting a spacecraft to new heights. So put on your aviator shades and get ready to take flight at Purdue University.

1. The University of Texas at Austin

If you have the determination, discipline, and a love for soaring through the air, then you’re off to a great start. The University of Texas at Austin has a top-notch ROTC program that can give you the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the military. Just remember, when you’re up there in the sky, there’s no “T” in “can’t”. Now, let’s get this bird in the air!

1. Private Ground School at MIT

If you’re looking to soar through the skies in a fancy flying machine (bonus points if it’s a military-grade plane), then attending the Massachusetts Institute of Technology might just be your golden ticket. With their Private Pilot Ground School, you’ll learn everything you need to know about taking a plane from point A to point B. And who knows? Maybe you’ll even become the next Maverick from Top Gun. Just make sure to bring your aviators and a killer soundtrack.

Conclusion

Becoming a military pilot is no easy task, but with the right university and training program, it can be an extremely rewarding career. With any luck, you’ll find the perfect school for your journey to becoming a military aviator – one that will give you the skills and knowledge needed to take flight. So don’t let fear or doubt take away from your success!

Author Bio:

Sylvester Greer is a writer and aviation enthusiast. He holds degrees in computer science and aeronautical engineering. He has spent years researching and writing about the fascinating world of aviation.​

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

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[DaveM]

Dakota Territory Air Museum’s P-47D Flies!

On a beautiful, sunny day in Bemidji, Minnesota, the Dakota Territory Air Museum’s Republic P-47D-23 Thunderbolt 42-27609 roared into the skies for the first time since its wartime accident at Dobodura airstrip in New Guinea on September 18th, 1944. The aircraft, magnificently restored over the past eight or so years by the master craftsmen at AirCorps Aviation, has been mechanically ready for this moment for some time now but, as is often the case with such endeavors, processing the veritable mountain of paperwork involved took the FAA quite a while to wade through before approvals could be granted.​

Awaiting the first flight, the ‘factory-fresh’ Thunderbolt looks stunning in the sunlight on the date of its first post-restoration flight, May 15th, 2023. (Photo courtesy of AirCorps Aviation)

Highly experienced warbird pilot, Bernie Vasquez, was at the controls for the initial 35 minute test flight. This marks the second Thunderbolt Vasquez has flown in as many weeks, having delivered P-47D 44-32817 to the Fagen Fighters WWII Museum in Granite Falls, Minnesota on May 4th. Of course this flight, being a first flight, involved a little more mental preparation, with Vasquez making sure to review the appropriate checklists and emergency procedures with additional vigor. But everything went exceptionally well according to the pilot, Vasquez noting: “It is always so special to test fly a warbird, especially a rare one like this P-47 Thunderbolt. It flew amazingly. Hats off to the AirCorps Aviation crew. This is the 4th airplane we have test flown from their shop squawk free!”​

Adding to the joy which everyone at AirCorps Aviation must surely be feeling right now, Eric Trueblood, the company’s Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing, noted: “It went awesome! There is always a unique feeling when you fly an airplane after a long restoration. We are extremely thankful to Bruce Eames and the Dakota Territory Air Museum for trusting us once again with such an important and rare airframe.”​

Celebrating after the Thunderbolt’s first flight (l to r): Collector and sponsor Bruce Eames, Bernie Vasquez and Dakota Territory Air Museum’s Choef Pilot Warren Pietsch. (Photo courtesy of AirCorps Aviation)

This P-47 now becomes the sole, Republic-built ‘Razorback’ variant of the Thunderbolt flying anywhere in the world! Once the required hours are flown off on the airframe, it will head over to the Dakota Territory Air Museum’s home in Minot, North Dakota, where it will eventually begin taking part in the organization’s air show commitments. We here have been following this restoration since the early days, and it is so exciting to finally see this magnificent aircraft restored to where it belongs, in the skies! Bravo to everyone involved!​

(Photo courtesy of AirCorps Aviation)

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[Rocky]

Stunning work

 

[Qship]

Stunning work

Indeed!

 

[Vector]

Attending this weekend: Western Sky Aviation Warbird Museum - Calendar Events

 

[DaveM]

FAA Issues Preliminary AD Affecting B-17 Fleet

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) today issued a preliminary Airworthiness Directive (AD) which will affect the operation of Boeing B-17E, F and G Flying Fortresses. The AD addresses a significant, wing-related issue which other B-17 operators are presently confronting. While this news may be a shock to some, it is not exactly surprising. Indeed, the Yankee Air Museum’s April 15th message announcing the voluntary grounding of their own B-17G, Yankee Lady (44-85829), left little doubt about the matter, all-but-confirming the FAA’s imminent action regarding the type…

“The Yankee Air Museum decided to proactively cease flight operations of the B-17G Flying Fortress ‘Yankee Lady.’Recent inspections of other B-17s have discovered wing spar issues. As a result we expect a mandatory Airworthiness Directive to be issued by the FAA in the next few weeks regarding the matter. Out of an abundance of caution, we are temporarily ceasing our B-17 flight operations and awaiting direction from the FAA regarding necessary inspections and repairs that will be required. It is expected that the B-17 will not fly during the 2023 flying season. Please note that this only affects the B-17.“​

The complete AD is available for review HERE, but the executive summary reads as follows…

“The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Boeing Model B-17E, B-17F, and B-17G airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report indicating that the left front spar lower fitting had completely separated at the wing-to-fuselage joint, and the equivalent joint on the right side of the airplane was cracked. This AD requires inspections of the wing terminal-to-spar chord joints, and repair if necessary. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.”

While this is just a preliminary AD, and one still open to public comment, it seems likely that all present B-17 operators will have to ground their aircraft until they have both performed the necessary inspections and addressed any issues discovered. This will be a costly endeavor, for sure, but given the present situation, it seems the only prudent course of action. Hopefully, the other B-17s will pass their inspections without the need for any economically untenable repairs and can return to the air show circuit sooner rather than later. We will be sure to report any further details when we learn them.​

Hopefully, given sufficient financial commitment and organizational determination, we may yet return to a time when multiple B-17s can gather at air shows across North America, as in this scene from the Yankee Air Museum’s Thunder Over Michigan event in 2003. (image by Richard Mallory Allnutt)

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