Current Fantasy of Flight restorations

Here is a list from various sources, like WIX, Kermit Week’s blog and other forums about the restoration of aircraft for the Fantasy of Flight museum. If you have any additional info or photos, let me know.

A-26 Invader “Whistler’s Mother”: Final stages of the restoration at Aero Trader. Waiting for the 2nd engine to arrive.

3 Boeing 100: A restoration of an original Boeing 100, that was damaged in the hangar collapse during Hurricane Andrew, by Roy Rehm in Nevada. Mr. Weeks has contracted for 2 additional Boeing 100’s to be configured as a Army P-12 C/D and a Navy F4B-2

Grumman Duck in Kansas

Corsair center section and Kingfisher in Australia

Stinson L-1: Being restored at the Fantasy of Flight shop. (photo credit to Joe Amend)

Seversky P-35: Being restored at the Fantasy of Flight shop. (photo credit to Joe Amend)

Grumman TBM Avenger: This was being restored at the Wings over Miami museum and it is still there now.

Hawker Tempest V: Undergoing restoration at Personal Plane Services (PPS) in England. This has been a slow restoration but a highly anticipated one. Latest photos available here and here.

updated with L-1 and P-35 photos, 27 Nov 08

SBD Dauntless coming to New Symnra on 6 Dec 08

According to the “Timeless Wings and Wheels Museum’s” website, a SBD Dauntless will be available for rides on 6 Dec at the New Symnra Airport. I am guessing the Dauntless will be the one assigned to the Dixie Wing of the CAF based out of the Atlanta area.

VAC Newsletter, Oct-Dec 08 is online

The Valiant Air Command have posted their Quarter 4 newsletter on their website.

Highlights include:
• Work on the 2009 airshow is underway. Dates are 13-15 March 09.
• C-47 “Tico Belle” is still under going maintenance to get it airworthy again. They have been doing some engine run-ups and found issues.
• Looks like they getting a L-5 Sentinel restoration project.
• They have sold their UVAC-66.

Wings ‘n Things at the Sun N Fun Museum 7-9 Nov 08

From the Sun N Fun Museum website: Wings ‘n Things is hosted annually by the Florida Air Museum at Sun ‘n Fun beginning the first Friday in November. It is a 3 day camping weekend showcasing the dynamic world of aviation especially for youth ages 5 to 18. Aviation enthusiasts gather to share their knowledge and interests with youth groups and families throughout Florida and the southeast. Activities support Girl Scout, Boy Scout and Royal Rangers badge requirements and peak the interest of kids who just like airplanes. Local families and groups can join the fun with a Saturday only pass. Aircraft parking is available on the grass in front of the FAA building for those flying in. Pre-registration is required for all participants. …

VAC Open House on Veteran’s Day

From the VAC website: Don’t miss this extra special Veteran’s Day weekend Open House 15 and 16 November at The Valiant Air Command. FREE admission for any military Active, or Retired and all Brevard County Residents – with ID.

In addition to entry to the Warbird Museum with thousands of artifacts, memorabilia and displays as well as the vintage warbirds, which will be on display, we will also have many of the veteran pilots that flew these venerable aircraft. And, as a special bonus to the aircraft and memorabilia that we have on display, the Space Coast Train Club will have operating train layouts and there will be an antique car showing as well.

The museum will be open from 9AM to 5PM. Hot dogs and drinks will be available and parking is free. So, whether it’s planes, trains and/or automobiles, there’s something for the whole family — come out, take a tour and become a part of history!