The North Weald-based C-54 Skymaster has reached the end of the line, as reports confirm that the aircraft has been cut into sections and is being removed from the airfield by truck. In February 2024, the C-54 Skymaster Society and Charitable Trust announced with “a heavy heart and great sadness” that work on the restoration of C-54D 56498 had officially come to an end. The organization stated on social media that, despite the unwavering dedication and efforts of its members, it was “no longer economically feasible” to continue the project.
Originally, the goal had been to return the 1945-built Skymaster to airworthy condition. However, a recent structural survey revealed the need for a complete replacement of the main spar and wings, with the estimated cost of these repairs alone exceeding £300,000. Further concerns about corrosion, compounded by prolonged exposure to the elements, created additional uncertainty. Given these mounting challenges, the group concluded that continuing the restoration would be financially unviable. Volunteers had made significant progress, successfully running three of the aircraft’s four engines and even rebuilding the number three engine over the past two years. However, funding that had been promised during the pandemic never materialized, as financial support was ultimately withdrawn and redirected to COVID-related causes.
While the fate of the Skymaster itself remains uncertain, the ground equipment will be donated to the Sally B organization, and any remaining funds will be given to the Veterans Foundation. “On behalf of the committee, I would like to extend our deepest gratitude to all members for their unwavering support throughout this journey,” the Society stated. “In particular, I want to acknowledge the dedication of our weekend engineering team, whose tireless efforts have been instrumental in our endeavors. While it saddens us to say goodbye, we can take pride in knowing that we gave it our best shot.”
