Tag: Aviation History

Today In Aviation History: First Flight of the Sikorsky S-52

On February 12, 1947, the Sikorsky S-52 made its first flight, introducing all-metal rotor blades…

Grounded Dreams: US Navy’s P6M SeaMaster and the End of Seaplane Bombers

The Martin P6M SeaMaster was a jet-powered Navy seaplane built for nuclear strike missions, but…

Randy’s Vintage Profiles: Curtiss Model 51 Fledgling

In this issue, lifelong aviation enthusiast Randy Malmstrom examines a rare Curtiss Model 51 Fledgling…

Today In Aviation History: First Flight of the Antonov An-8

On February 11, 1956, the Antonov An-8 made its first flight, marking the Soviet Union’s…

Today In Aviation History: First Flight of the Dornier Do 31

On February 10, 1967, the experimental Dornier Do 31 became the world’s first VTOL jet…

Grounded Dreams: The Mirage 4000 and Europe’s Superfighter That Never Was

The Dassault Mirage 4000 was a powerful European superfighter that rivaled the world’s best jets,…

Today In Aviation History: First Flight of the Convair CV-540

On February 9, 1955, the Convair CV-540 flew for the first time, marking an early…

Grounded Dreams: Northrop F-20 Tigershark, One of the Best Fighters That Never Went Into Production

The F-20 Tigershark was fast, capable, and ahead of its time, but politics, timing, and…

CAF West Texas Wing Becomes Helldiver Squadron, Honoring a Legendary Naval Dive Bomber

Beginning January 1, 2026, the Commemorative Air Force’s West Texas Wing will operate as the…

Today In Aviation History: First Flight of the Fairey Firefly II

On February 5, 1929, the Fairey Firefly II made its first flight, marking the debut…