Vintage Aviation Museum Plans Relocation of a Saab Draken Fighter Aircraft

A Cold War-era Saab Draken fighter currently in Chino, California, is set to begin a new chapter as Vintage Aviation Museum works to relocate the aircraft to Spanish Fork, Utah. The move is a major logistical effort, involving partial disassembly, oversize-load transport, permits, and specialized crews, with costs estimated between $30,000 and $40,000. Once relocated, the distinctive double-delta-wing jet will be placed on museum grounds and opened to the public. To make the move possible, the museum has launched a donation campaign, offering several levels of donor recognition to help ensure the aircraft’s preservation and future display.

Amreetam Basu
Amreetam Basu
The Saab 37 Viggen in Chino, California (The name means Tufted Duck; the word also means The Thunderbolt)Photo by Adam Estes
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A Saab Draken fighter aircraft in Chino, California, is set to be moved by road to Spanish Fork, Utah, by Vintage Aviation Museum, with funding required to cover specialist transport costs. Once in Utah, the aircraft will be positioned on museum property and opened to the public. The Saab Draken is a Cold War-era jet that served with a number of European air forces. The aircraft is known for its double-delta wing design. Moving the aircraft will require specialist transport. Work includes partial disassembly, loading by experienced crews, permits for an oversize load, escort vehicles, insurance, and unloading at the destination. This indicates a higher cost, which is expected to be between $30,000 and $40,000. The schedule depends on the availability of qualified contractors to move aircraft of this size. If the move cannot be arranged within the current timeframe, it may not be possible to relocate the aircraft as planned.

To cover the cost, Vintage Aviation Museum is accepting public donations. Donor recognition has been set at several levels. $25 donors will be listed as supporters. $100 donors will receive a digital photo record of the move. $500 donors will have their names displayed near the aircraft. Those contributing $1,000 will be invited to a private viewing after the aircraft reaches Utah. The immediate goal is to complete the relocation and secure the aircraft at its new location. Click HERE to donate to Vintage Aviation Museum and save a Saab Draken.

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Amreetam Basu is the Content Manager at Vintage Aviation News and has spent more than four years working in editorial roles. He started out covering automobiles before moving into aviation, where he now writes and edits stories focused on aircraft history, preservation, and design. His work ranges from breaking news to long-form features, with a focus on making aviation history accessible to a wider audience. Outside of work, he spends time behind the camera, travels whenever possible, and is usually reading about airplanes. For story ideas or queries, contact Amreetam at [email protected].
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