Burnelli CBY-3 on Public Display at New England Air Museum

Periodically, we have presented restoration updates regarding the ultra-rare Burnelli CBY-3 Loadmaster at the New England Air Museum in Windsor Locks, Connecticut. Albeit a little late on our part, we are happy to report that the museum’s restoration team has completed their eight year effort to resurrect the sole survivor of this unique blended-fuselage transport. She is now safely ensconced in the museum’s Civilian Aircraft Hangar, following the short journey from the museum’s workshop.

Restoration Crew Chief, Harry Newman now picks up the story…

Right Wing Installation

With the fuselage in its display position the right wing was moved to the display hangar for installation. The fuselage was placed on jacks to eliminate any movement during the installation process. The wing was then aligned and lifted into the proper attitude to align the four attachment points. Meanwhile, a crew inside the aircraft guided the fine alignment via radio to the lifting crew. When all of the hardware lined up in the proper position the four large mounting pins were driven into place securing the wing.

Propellers

Work has been completed on the propellers with the painting of the prop tips and application of the technical data and manufacturer’s decals. The left propeller was then installed on the aircraft, however the completed right propeller was installed later, after the right wing was installed.

Right Propeller Installation

We decided to delay the installation of the completed right propeller to avoid interference when mounting the right wing. Once that was accomplished the propeller was brought out of storage and mounted immediately after the wing installation.

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Moreno Aguiari

Born in Milan, Italy, Moreno moved to the U.S. in 1999 to pursue a career as a commercial pilot. His aviation passion began early, inspired by his uncle, an F-104 Starfighter Crew Chief, and his father, a military traffic controller. Childhood adventures included camping outside military bases and watching planes at Aeroporto Linate. In 1999, he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, to obtain his commercial pilot license, a move that became permanent. With 24 years in the U.S., he now flies full-time for a Part 91 business aviation company in Atlanta. He is actively involved with the Commemorative Air Force, the D-Day Squadron, and other aviation organizations. He enjoys life with his supportive wife and three wonderful children.

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