Planes of Fame Air Museum will host a special event on Saturday, November 1, 2025, featuring the rare Grumman F7F “Tigercat,” the 8th Annual Ed Maloney Scale Model Contest, and an engaging Hangar Talk session. Thanks to Rod Lewis of Lewis Air Legends, the museum will showcase the “Tigercat” during a flight demonstration beginning at 12:15 p.m. Visitors will have the opportunity to see and hear the powerful twin-engine fighter in action.
The Grumman F7F Tigercat, developed in 1941 for the U.S. Navy, was designed as a twin-engine carrier-based fighter and ground attack aircraft for the Midway-class carriers. First flown in 1943, the aircraft arrived too late for World War II combat but saw service with the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War in night fighting and ground support roles. The Tigercat was notable as the Navy’s first carrier aircraft with tricycle landing gear and for its heavy armament of four 20mm cannons and four .50-caliber machine guns.
Following a brief presentation on the aircraft’s history, the museum will start both of the Tigercat’s Pratt & Whitney R-2800 Double Wasp radial engines, producing 4,200 horsepower. The demonstration will continue with taxi operations and an aerial display over the museum grounds. Visitors will also have the chance to meet the pilot and ask questions after the flight. Earlier in the day, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., the museum will host the Ed Maloney Scale Model Contest in the Maloney Hangar. Open to museum members, volunteers, and Junior Modeling Club participants, the contest features six categories and dozens of entries. Guests serve as judges, placing colored stickers on their favorite models. Winners in each category will be announced at the conclusion of Hangar Talk.
Hangar Talk will cover a range of aviation topics aimed at educating and inspiring attendees of all ages. Visitors will also have access to all seven museum hangars, including more than 100 aircraft and historical exhibits. The B-17 Flying Fortress will be open for tours, food trucks will be on site, and museum guides will share stories from the collection. The museum gift shop will offer aviation-themed merchandise. Doors open at 9:00 a.m., with regular admission prices in effect. Museum members receive free entry. The event promises a full day of aviation history, spectacular aircraft demonstrations, and hands-on experiences, making it an ideal outing for aviation enthusiasts and families alike. For more information, visit www.planesoffame.org.
