The Commemorative Air Force West Texas Wing’s SB2C Helldiver, one of the last flying examples of this storied World War II dive bomber, has endured its share of trials in recent years. Ed Vesely, senior pilot of the Helldiver, recently shared insights on the aircraft’s turbulent journey and its return to airshow circuits for the 2025 season.
Engine Troubles and Replacements
The Helldiver’s recent history has been marked by significant mechanical challenges, beginning with an engine failure in May 2019. While returning from Norfolk, Virginia, after training with the Navy Legacy squadron, Vesely encountered smoke in the cockpit over northern Mississippi. The engine, transitioning from smooth operation to catastrophic failure, forced him to declare a Mayday. With guidance from ATC, he was directed to McComb, Mississippi, where emergency services were waiting as he executed a tense but successful landing.
Upon inspection, it was discovered that the engine had lost approximately ten gallons of oil in just 15 minutes, covering the aircraft in a slick mess. The ensuing repairs led to an engine overhaul , a process that stretched into 2020. Unfortunately, the new engine underperformed, leading to continued oil consumption issues and further mechanical work that kept the aircraft grounded for extended periods.
By late 2023, after troubleshooting and repairs, the Helldiver finally seemed to be operating smoothly. The aircraft returned to flight with two successful events in 2024, and with a promising outlook for the 2025 season, the team is eager to resume a full schedule of airshow appearances.
Training the Next Generation of Helldiver Pilots
For many years, Vesely was the sole pilot regularly flying the Helldiver. Now, additional pilots, including John Cotter and John Bixby, have joined the ranks, ensuring the aircraft’s continued operation. Training new pilots in such a rare warbird is no simple task. Since no dual-control Helldivers exist, candidates must first accumulate extensive T-6 Texan experience before undergoing a rigorous evaluation process. This includes a thorough ground school, flight evaluations by the CAF’s Flight Evaluation Board, two backseat “fighter checkout” in an AT-6 Texan and ultimately, solo checkout flights in the Helldiver itself. At the end of March, a new group of candidates participated in a six-hour ground school session at Ellington Field, marking another step in keeping the Helldiver flying for years to come.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 Airshow Season
With its engine woes seemingly behind it, the Helldiver is poised for an exciting 2025 season, beginning with a tour of the East Coast. A major highlight will be its return to the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum’s World War II Weekend in Reading, Pennsylvania—an event known for its immersive historical reenactments and spectacular warbird performances.
Additionally, the Helldiver may participate in a once-in-a-lifetime formation flight. Until recently, the CAF Helldiver was the world’s only airworthy example, but now two others—the Fagen Fighters’ Helldiver and another based in Colorado Springs—have taken to the skies. Vesely test flew the Fafen’s Helldiver for its first post-restoration flight from their facility in Granite Falls, Minnesota back in July 2024. Discussions are underway to bring all three together for a historic multi-ship Helldiver flyover, something not seen since the late 1940s.
Preserving History in the Air
Reflecting on his role in flying and maintaining the Helldiver, Vesely emphasized the responsibility that comes with operating such a rare piece of history. “It’s an honor and a privilege to be a pilot and crew member on any of these airplanes,” he said. “Our mission is to preserve and protect these aircraft, but also to fly them so that the public can see, feel, and experience what the Greatest Generation did.” With its challenges behind it and an exciting season ahead, the CAF’s SB2C Helldiver stands ready once again to share its story with aviation enthusiasts across the country. For more information about the Commemorative Air Force SB2C Helldiver and to support the unit, visit https://westtexaswing.com/
