Goodrich Corp.’s Aircraft Wheels and Brakes team in Troy, Ohio, has donated a 1929 WACO Model CTO “Taperwing” biplane, once owned by famous air racer Joe Mackey, to the WACO Historical Society.
Brian Brandewie, president, Goodrich Aircraft Wheels and Brakes said, “Donating Joe Mackey’s Taperwing to the WACO Historical Society underscores the rich aerospace heritage that Goodrich shares with the city of Troy. Many of our employees grew up in this area, and several have volunteered to ensure the preservation of this extraordinary aircraft. We are proud of our history and appreciate the cooperative efforts of the Historical Society to help us celebrate the accomplishments of aviation past, present and future.”
The WACO aircraft company produced hundreds of aircraft — more than 80 different models — from the 1920s through 1940s at its facility in Troy, Ohio. Its Taperwing biplane model was a favorite for aerobatics and racing. Air racer Joe Mackey flew a Taperwing to many victories in the 1930s, including the top prize at the 1936 Paris Air Show. Goodrich Corp.’s Aircraft Wheels and Brakes business acquired Mackey’s Taperwing in 1993 as a way to represent and preserve the aviation heritage of Troy. Goodrich coordinated the plane’s restoration, culminating in a 1996 flight. Since then, the plane has flown numerous aerial demonstrations at air shows across the U.S.
Goodrich Aircraft Wheels and Brake was founded in 1946 on the grounds of the original WACO Aircraft Co. in Troy, Ohio. Headquartered in Troy for more than 60 years, the business currently employs more than 1,400 people in 11 facilities in the U.S., UK, Australia, and Hong Kong. The business designs, develops and manufactures more than 200 types of wheels and brakes for commercial and military aerospace customers worldwide; platforms include the U.S. Space Shuttle, the new Airbus A350 XWB and Boeing 787 Dreamliner commercial aircraft, the Mitsubishi MRJ regional jet, the Northrop Grumman Global Hawk unmanned aerial vehicle, and the Sukhoi Superjet 100.
For more information: Goodrich.com or WACOAirMuseum.org
