Back in October, we provided an update on the restoration progress of the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Airbase Georgia’s P-47N Thunderbolt (s/n 44-89136). Since then, the highly skilled volunteer restoration team at Falcon Field in Peachtree City, Georgia, has continued their meticulous work to return this iconic WWII fighter to airworthy condition. While this specific P-47N arrived too late to see combat overseas during the war, it boasts an intriguing post-war history with the Guatemalan Air Force, which we detailed in an article from December 2016.
The restoration team has made significant headway on the aircraft’s electrical wiring and hydraulic systems. These systems were central to the P-47 Thunderbolt’s reputation as an engineering marvel. The aircraft’s electrical network was designed to meet the demands of its advanced features, such as engine ignition, lighting, communications, and the powerful turbo-supercharger. Redundant wiring ensured reliability under combat conditions. The hydraulic system powered critical components like the landing gear, flaps, brakes, and gun charging mechanisms, providing durability and precision. Together, these systems highlighted the P-47’s rugged design and advanced technology, cementing its legacy as a formidable WWII fighter-bomber.
The team has also re-chromed several hydraulic cylinders and completely disassembled, cleaned, and overhauled the tailwheel components. This effort highlights the team’s attention to detail and commitment to returning the aircraft to pristine condition.
One of CAF Airbase Georgia’s unique advantages is its proximity to Atlanta International Airport and Delta TechOps. Over the years, generations of skilled airline mechanics who worked for airlines at Hartsfield-Jackson have volunteered their expertise, contributing to numerous restoration projects ( P-51 Mustang, SBD-5 Dauntless, P-63 Kingcobra, PT-19 and now the PT-17 and P-47). However, you don’t need to be an aviation professional to make a difference. For instance, Rodney Higginbotham, a former firefighter, taught himself CNC machining and 3D printing techniques to produce parts for CAF aircraft. His latest contribution involves manufacturing ammunition rollers, which will eventually be installed in the P-47’s wings.
Since the project’s inception, CAF Airbase Georgia has partnered with AirCorps Aviation, a leading restoration shop based in Minnesota. AirCorps previously overhauled the P-47’s engine mount and was recently commissioned to refurbish the leading edges, flaps, ailerons, and engine cowlings. AirCorps Aviation’s expertise in P-47 restorations is unparalleled, as evidenced by their award-winning, multi-year restoration of Dakota Territory Air Museum’s P-47D-23 Thunderbolt (42-27609), which first flew again in May 2023. Leveraging their specialized tools, patterns, and know-how, AirCorps is helping ensure that CAF Airbase Georgia’s Thunderbolt restoration meets the highest standards.
The restoration of the P-47N Thunderbolt is a complex and resource-intensive endeavor. If you’d like to support this remarkable project, the aircraft is featured in the CAF’s upcoming 12 Planes of Christmas fundraising campaign. Click HERE to learn more about how you can contribute to preserving this piece of aviation history.
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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.
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