Chris:
This is a redacted version of what I have on Uruguayan F-80s:
Fuerza Aérea Uruguaya FAU:
I found no reference to an F-80 exploding in mid-air while it was being exported to the USA.
The only reference is as follows:
FAU-212 ==== F-80C-1-LO === 48-873 === Fuel tank exploded.
On 02 August 1964, FAU-212 flown by Ttte. 2° Javier Betancor experienced an engine stoppage due to fuel starvation; the pilot attempted an emergency landing at the "Aerodromo Militar General Artigas" while at the same time, continued to attempt an airstart. Believing that he could make it to Carrasco, and within the limits of the airfield, the fuel tank exploded, destroying the airplane, and killing the pilot.
++++++++
FAU-213 === F-80C-10-LO ==== 49-3597 is preserved at the Museo Nacional de Aviación in Montevideo.
There is another F-80 ex-FAU-218 F-80, 49-432 (F-80C-10-LO) preserved at the Armament Museum, EglinAFB FL
Uruguay received 17 F-80s under MDAP funding. Deliveries began on 12May 1958 (5 aircraft)
Another 3 arrived during the first two weeks of July. These were following by 6 on 18 September, and the last unit arrived on 12 22 September 1958.
All the aircraft were flight delivered by U.S. pilots, and arrived with full armament, including K-14C gunsight.
FAU Serials assigned 210 - 226
Besides Uruguay, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru also operated the F-80
There is also this, of interest to those living in neighboring states:
viewtopic.php?f=3&t=51840Saludos,
Tulio
Login
Register
FAQ
Search
