PRESS RELEASE – Restoration of the B-29 Superfortress known as Doc is now entering its final stage. The countdown to her first flight is steadily approaching, and Doc’s Friends, the organization restoring the vintage bomber, is hopeful that Doc will take to the skies in the next few months.
Current State of Restoration
· The aircraft has been partially fueled and checked closely for leaks, with none occurring.
· The fuel system is currently being fine-tuned prior to pressurization and engine start.
· Turbocharger casings are now installed on all four engines.
· Engine exhaust system installations are nearly complete.
· Final avionics components are ready to install, including the intercoms required for ground and air operations.
· A Federal Aviation Administration review of the Aircraft Inspection Plan is in progress.
Next Steps
· Before the B-29 can fly, Doc’s Friends must receive an Airworthiness Certificate from the FAA. Once the certificate is issued, Doc’s Friends will submit an already completed formal application to the U.S. Air Force requesting approval to operate Doc from McConnell Air Force Base during the flight-testing phase.
· Doc’s Friends is currently evaluating options for the B-29’s permanent home base at the Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport. The organization will operate the aircraft as a flying museum to accomplish its intended mission.
· Doc’s Friends’ board of directors approved the launch of a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign to help fund the costs of conducting the flight-testing phase of the program. Additional details will be released at a later date.
About Doc’s Friends
Doc’s Friends is a 501c3 non-profit board managing the restoration of the Boeing B-29 Superfortress known as Doc. The group was formed in 2013 and is led by retired Spirit AeroSystems CEO Jeff Turner along with other Wichita business leaders; Charlie Chandler, Jack Pelton, Steve Clark, Lynn Nichols, Brad Gorsuch, Vic McMullen, Ron Ryan, Tim Buchanan, Jeff Peier, Esq., and Tom Bertels. Doc’s Friends is committed to returning this World War II warbird to the air to honor previous generations, educate current and future generations and connect the world to the rich heritage of aviation. You can find more information about Doc’s Friends at www.b-29doc.com.
