Warbird Information Exchange

I'm thinking its probably about time to start thinking about the possible delights we can look forward to seeing at Oshkosh 2020.

In 2019 we hoped to see Ron Fagen's Hellcat and Helldiver, Dakota Territory Museum's Bearcat and Hurricane and the Canadian Warplane Firefly. Are there any updates on these aircraft or any others that we can look forward to seeing?

No updates on those, but it's likely DTAM's new D model will be there, maybe going for best P-51 eh?

All three of these organizations have certainly supported Airventure with attending aircraft in the past.

I'm guessing another probablity will be recently-restored P-51 44-73437.

Another Mustang, Pat Harker's TF-51 conversion 44-72483, is closing in on first flight at Airmotive Specialties.

Sam Taber continues to wrap up WHF's FG-1D.

I believe it was Warren D. at Avspecs who indicated that OSH 2020 was being targeted to display Tony Banta's Spitfire Mk XVI TB252.

I suppose Tri-States' Flugwerk FW-190 is a possibility, although they may decide to keep her closer to home for the present.

Rimowa has committed to displaying their (now flying) Junkers F13 replica.

Collings Foundation has always been very good about allowing their aircraft restorers to reap awards for their efforts. Will Fw-190 "White 1" be airborne by summer? Probably a stretch.

In August, Brent Langer indicated that Kermit's Sikorsky S-38 might be ready for engine runs by spring. Again, likely a long-shot to be airborne this summer (but what's life without a little speculation?).

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It was a good idea, it just didn't work.

The Canadian Warplane Heritage Avenger should be flying by then. Would be cool to see the Firefly and Avenger show up in matching liveries.

I'm hoping if the FW-190 isn't complete, they will bring the P-38L.

Perhaps Tim Savage's O-52 as well?

Is the CAF Sierra Hotel Squadron A-26 close? The last pictures I saw looked pretty complete, but it could be one of those cases where it's 90 percent complete with 50 percent to go.

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Matt

As appreciated as that P-38 would be, I just don’t see it happening (as it wasn’t the subject of an in-depth restoration).

On the other hand, if “White 1” is airborne by then it will require support staff. And what better means of delivering the Gosshawk team (and parts/tools/beer) than the PB4Y-2?

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It was a good idea, it just didn't work.

From ICAS- The Canadian Snowbirds will be returning to AirVenture 2020.

Thanks for that. I've had trouble finding current info. Sounds like it's very close.

Also per ICAS, the F-16 Demo Team from Shaw AFB will be back.

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Matt

I've also heard rumours that Vintage wings will send their (hopefully) completed Hurricane XII and possible the P-51, which is getting a bit of a refresh this winter.

Sean

Hoping there will be a GOOD assortment of classic jets!

Any word on Sabres that may be attending?

Still hoping to someday see a 4-Ship F-86 formation there.

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Jim C.

Whatever is there, I shall enjoy!

EAA news reporting that USAF Special Operations will be highlighted. Although the airframe list hasn't been finalized, there is a lot of potential with AC-130, MC-130, Osprey, HH-60, pararescue, combat control, etc, etc.

Ken

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"Take care of the little things and the big things will take care of themselves."

What happened in 2018?

A few of his WWI birds were damaged in shipping to the show. He also had his Spirit of St. Louis damaged in shipping a few years back.

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