After an extended period of inactivity, work on the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome Museum’s reproduction of the Spirit of St. Louis has resumed.
The reproduction aircraft project was begun by the aerodrome’s founder Cole Palen who passed away in 1993 at which time progress on this faithful reproduction of the famous custom-constructed Ryan Airline Company’s Ryan NYP (for New York to Paris) halted. The newly-revived project is headed by Ken Cassens who is a noted expert on the plane that carried Charles Lindbergh from New York to Paris, non-stop in May of 1927.
The work on the plane is planned to be in two stages, with the plane being brought to static display standards first, then bringing the plane to flying condition at an as-yet undetermined future date.
Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome Museum President Michael DiGiacomio stated: “Thanks to Ken’s on-going commitment and the generous donations of dollars and materials from other businesses, the aerodrome and its visitors will be able to see Cole’s vision become a reality.”
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.
nice to see the progress. Hope it is a mild winter, that door looks drafty.