The Commemorative Air Force’s Boeing B-29 Superfortress has returned to the skies just in time for the 2010 CAF AIRSHO Oct. 9-10 at Midland International Airport (MAF) in Texas.
Following an extensive re-engine project, FIFI took her first flight Aug. 6, when she experienced a distributor malfunction in engine number two that resulted in pre-ignition, damaging some of the cylinders. The engine was removed and shipped to Anderson Aeromotive for repairs. The engine was returned to the CAF and tested before the aircraft returned to flight during the early afternoon of Fri., Sept. 24.
“This is a great day for the Commemorative Air Force,” said CAF President Stephan Brown. “With the successful completion of the flight testing, we look forward to the long future with these reliable new engines. The work of the CAF volunteer members and support of Jim Cavanaugh has given FIFI a new lease on life. There are many years ahead of FIFI for touring the country and telling the stories of the men and women who sacrificed their lives for our freedom.”
Following more than four years of work, FIFI returned to the skies just after 1 p.m. on Friday afternoon for a flight of almost two hours. Back on the ground, the crew immediately began inspecting every inch of the airplane before returning to the air for a second flight of just over an hour Friday evening.
Saturday morning just after 10 a.m., the B-29 crew, lead by CAF pilot Charles Tilghman, took to the skies for its third and final test flight required for the FAA.
“We are excited to know that FIFI is ready for the CAF AIRSHO,” said Volunteer Chairperson, Gena Linebarger. “Having the ‘Queen of our Fleet’ back in the air at for the AIRSHO Oct. 9-10 will show we really are ‘The Best Warbird Show in America!’”
AIRSHO will be the first opportunity for the public to purchase rides in the world’s only flyable B-29. Rides will be available beginning Thursday, Oct. 8, through Sunday, Oct. 10. For more information: CAFB29B24.org.
On Oct. 9th and 10th, the CAF AIRSHO gates will open to the public at 7:30 a.m. to give attendees time to view the static aircraft before the flying begins. AIRSHO features more than 100 aircraft on display and in the air, ranging from early vintage aircraft to the thundering sounds of today’s American military. For more information: AIRSHO.org
