Despite early struggles in the Pacific theater, the U.S. Army Air Forces’ A-24 dive bomber eventually proved its formidable worth in the Pacific theater during World War II.
About Frederick Johnsen
Catalina Claims A Crown at AirVenture
The meticulously restored 1941 Consolidated PBY-5A Catalina claimed the Grand Champion World War II award at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026, just a few weeks after its first flight after a seven-year restoration.
Forces of Nature at AirVenture: A MiG and a Man
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman showcased his rare MiG-29 jet fighter at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026. During a Warbirds in Review panel, he captivated the crowd, sharing his vision for revitalizing space exploration.
P-38 Lightning Electrifies AirVenture
The legendary Lockheed P-38 Lightning, once known as “White Lightnin'” made a rare and triumphant return to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026. Now owned by the Flying Bulls from Austria, the beautifully restored World War II fighter dazzled aviation enthusiasts with its striking polished skin and thrilling flight performances.
Road Trip: On My Way to Oshkosh
Join one “Plane Nerd” on a cross-country road trip to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. From exploring Cold War jet fighters in Idaho to discovering agricultural drones in Iowa, experience the scenic grandeur and aviation treasures found along the journey to the world’s greatest aviation celebration.
Birthing a Billings Bluebird
Montana’s Tim Talen has breathed life into the extinct Montana Bluebird, a diminutive two-place airplane that made its debut at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026.
The Curtiss Kingbird: A Forgotten Twin Engine Airliner
When aviation enthusiasts think of Curtiss aircraft, they rarely remember the Curtiss Kingbird.
Triple Tail Aircraft: Why Classic Airliners Used Three Fins
During the late 1930s and early 1940s, several pioneering airliners like the Boeing Clipper and Lockheed Constellation embraced an unusual design feature: The triple tail. Of Wings & Things columnist Frederick A. Johnsen tells us about the fascinating engineering challenges, aerodynamic secrets, and hangar size limitations that inspired these iconic aviation masterpieces.
Gunfighter Skies: A Flag-Waving Start to Air Show Season in Idaho
The 2026 Idaho air show season officially kicked off at Mountain Home Air Force Base with the patriotic Gunfighter Skies air show.