The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Great Plains Wing (GPW) has recently acquired a 1946 Fairchild PT-19. Purchased in 2023, the aircraft has been officially assigned to the Wing, based in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Known for previously hosting the iconic P-51 Gunfighter, the Unit has been actively seeking ways to keep its members engaged in aviation projects.
Currently, the Great Plains Wing is busy with the restoration of an Ercoupe, a project that has garnered significant interest and effort from its members. However, the need for an operational aircraft to complement these restoration efforts led the Wing to request an assignment for a flying machine in February 2023.
After months of meticulous preparation and overcoming various weather-related delays, the eagerly awaited day finally arrived. On May 15, 2024, the PT-19, N60112, was flown to its new home in Iowa. This flight, marking the culmination of extensive efforts, was documented by Chad Bosworth, who captured several stunning photographs of the aircraft and its journey.
About the great CAF Great Plains Wing: The Great Plains Wing started in the Omaha/Council Bluffs area in 1984. It was originally chartered as the Nebraska Squadron and met at the Strategic Air Command Museum. The squadron helped to restore a C-47, B-17, B-25, and B-29. In 1986, the squadron changed it’s name to the Great Plains Wing. In 1988, a new hangar was built at the Council Bluffs Municipal Airport (CBF) including a museum and meeting room. The Great Plains Wing Hanger houses two vintage World War II aircraft. The P-51 Mustang Gunfighter (Joined 1990) and a YO-55 Ercoupe (Joined 2023, In restoration). Both are usually on display undergoing maintenance in the fall and winter. During the period of 1988 thru the present, the GPW helped restore two L-3 observation airplanes and an L-5 liaison aircraft. Learn More Here
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