The newsletter received from the Vulcan XH558 organization pointed out that the team is ahead in the schedule as they were striving to complete the winter service in good time to allow the wing modification work to begin in earnest from the middle of January, 2014. Both ejection seats and the canopy were delivered enabling the aircraft to be put up on jacks a good two working weeks ahead of plan. The time saved helped with getting the aircraft airworthy again early in the 2014 season, providing of course all things continue on track with no unexpected issues arising.
XH558 was up on jacks ready to be placed under stress to replicate in-flight forces after the holiday break, prior to work commencing on the wing modification that extended her flying life. Other completed work included the re-installation of the fire bottles, the explosive squibs that fire them and replacement of the serviced inertia switches. Below you can see a short time-lapse video of the seat and canopy installation.
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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