Scott Thompson’s B-17 Updates From Madras

The restoration of B-17G 44-85718 (N900RW), formerly known as Thunderbird and soon to be renamed We The People, is making significant progress at the Erickson Aircraft Collection in Madras, Oregon. Owned by Scott Glover and the Mid-America Flight Museum since December 2020, this historic aircraft has undergone extensive work, particularly on its wings, where intricate rebuilding efforts are breaking new ground in B-17 restoration history.  Aero Vintage recently provided exciting updates on several examples of the historic World War II bomber, you can read the article HERE.

The focus of the restoration has been on the replacement of spar tubes within the inner wing panels. These spar trusses, each consisting of forward and aft spars with two spar tubes, have been a known challenge for flying B-17s, prompting multiple FAA Airworthiness Directives (ADs). Historically, restoration efforts relied on existing spar tubes due to the difficulty of manufacturing new ones to Boeing’s original specifications. However, a manufacturer in the United Kingdom successfully replicated the spar tubes, making them available for the first time. The Mid-America Flight Museum invested in a complete set of spar tubes, allowing all eight to be replaced in both inner wing panels—a groundbreaking step that ensures the aircraft meets modern safety standards.

The restoration team at Erickson has employed innovative techniques, starting with the construction of rigid jigs to hold the wing panels in alignment during disassembly. The rear spar trusses were carefully removed, placed in dedicated jigs, and are undergoing painstaking tube replacements, one at a time. This process demands exceptional technical skill, as the rebuilt components must align perfectly with the aircraft’s structure—a task complicated by the handmade nature of the original parts. Once the rear spar trusses are complete, they will be reinstalled, and work will begin on the forward spar trusses. This meticulous approach, combined with a financial investment exceeding half a million dollars in equipment and materials, underscores the commitment to ensuring this aircraft’s airworthiness for decades to come. This project not only advances the restoration of We The People but also paves the way for future B-17 operators. The techniques and tooling developed during this process will streamline similar repairs on other airframes, offering a safer and more sustainable path for these historic aircraft. While the cost is significant, it promises to extend the operational life of the B-17, preserving its legacy for generations.

Also at Erickson’s facility is another B-17G, 44-85829 (N3193G), formerly known as Yankee Lady. Recently acquired by Charles Somers, this airframe is undergoing disassembly in preparation for transport to Avspecs Ltd. in New Zealand. While the fuselage, tail, and outer wing panels will be shipped overseas, the inner wing panels will remain at Erickson for inspection and potential rebuilding. The extent of work required will be determined after a thorough evaluation, ensuring the airframe is restored to the highest standards.

Moreno Aguiari

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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