PRESS RELEASE
The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) has announced a major milestone in the restoration of its iconic B-29 Superfortress FIFI, bringing the aircraft significantly closer to resuming flight. This update follows months of meticulous repair work and widespread public support that has propelled the historic bomber toward an eagerly anticipated return to the skies.
Earlier this year, a pre-flight inspection uncovered a critical fault involving the supercharger system—specifically, the impeller spinner discharge valve—on engines #2 and #4. The discovery grounded FIFI and prompted swift action. Both engines were removed and sent to Vintage Radials in Tehachapi, California, where noted radial engine expert Mike Nixon and his team conducted extensive repairs and rigorous test bench runs.
Those tests concluded successfully, and on June 16, the restored engines were delivered back to Dallas by Doug Platten and Pat Clayton. The CAF’s dedicated maintenance team quickly set to work reinstalling the powerplants and reattaching the propellers. Initial ground run-ups are scheduled to begin on Saturday, June 21, at the Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center at Dallas Executive Airport.
Revised Tour Schedule as Testing Continues
Although FIFI’s return is drawing near, additional time is needed for post-maintenance evaluations and aircrew refresher training. Consequently, two early summer tour stops—Lexington, Kentucky (June 28–29), and Evansville, Indiana (July 2–6)—have been cancelled. The aircraft is now expected to rejoin the CAF’s AirPower History Tour in Mansfield, Ohio (July 9–13), before making a highly anticipated appearance at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh later in the month. Updates on the tour schedule are available at airpowersquadron.org.
To offset the unexpected maintenance expenses, the CAF launched a $50,000 fundraising campaign earlier this month. That target was met in just a few days thanks to a groundswell of support from aviation fans nationwide. In response, the CAF has increased its goal to $100,000, with the additional funds helping ensure FIFI remains airworthy well into the future. Donations can still be made at https://fundrazr.com/FIFI_Flies.
Squadron Leader Jeremy Lashbrook expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support: “The generosity and personal messages from supporters across the country have been incredibly moving. It’s a powerful reminder of the deep connection people have with FIFI and her mission.” As one of only two B-29 bombers in flying condition, FIFI serves not only as a rare piece of aviation history but also as a moving tribute to those who built and flew these aircraft during the Second World War. Every stop on her national tour offers visitors a chance to see, hear, and even fly aboard a living piece of American heritage—an experience that continues to inspire both veterans and newcomers alike. To learn more about FIFI’s history, upcoming appearances, or to book a ride, visit airpowersquadron.org.
