The final AV-8B Harrier II jump jets in U.S. military service are set to retire by 2027. While early production models have already been gradually phased out, demilitarized, and transferred to aviation museums across the country, another example of this iconic aircraft is now preparing for permanent display. Following in the footsteps of the CAF Arizona Airbase, the Hickory Aviation Museum, the Fort Worth Aviation Museum, and the Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum, Castle Air Museum in Atwater, California is the latest to receive an AV-8B Harrier II.
On July 11, the museum proudly announced the arrival of its Harrier: McDonnell Douglas AV-8B Harrier II, Bureau Number 165579, a former United States Marine Corps aircraft. This jump jet previously served with VMA-311 “Tomcats” and was later assigned to the operational test squadron VX-9 at China Lake. Notably, it participated in combat operations in the Middle East and will now continue its legacy as a display piece honoring Marine Corps aviation history.
On July 17, the museum confirmed that the aircraft had been fully demilitarized by a specialized Marine Corps team from China Lake and relocated to its new home next to Castle Air Museum’s Cobra helicopter. A rollout ceremony will be held at the museum on Thursday, July 24, at 10:00 a.m., where the public will have the opportunity to see the Harrier up close and meet the pilot who flew the aircraft to the museum.
As part of its continuing public engagement, Castle Air Museum will host its Open Cockpit Day on August 30, where the AV-8B Harrier II will serve as the marquee attraction. The aircraft’s arrival coincides with the U.S. Marine Corps’ ongoing plan to phase out the Harrier fleet. According to the Corps’ aviation strategy released on February 3, 2025, half of the remaining 39 aircraft will retire in 2026, with the rest withdrawn from service by late 2027. For more information about Castle Air Museum and upcoming events, please visit www.castleairmuseum.org
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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.
