WarbirdsNews has just received word from Doc’s Friends in Wichita, Kansas that their B-29 Superfortress known as Doc has just reviewed official approval from the Pentagon to use the longer, non-joint-use runway at McConnell Air Force Base. The aircraft received her official airworthiness certificate from the FAA a few weeks ago, so now the restoration team can begin the final preparations for the first flight.
Doc’s Friends’ press release continues…
The authorization signed by officials at the Pentagon means Doc’s flight crew will begin conversations with base leaders to schedule high-speed taxi testing and eventually takeoffs and landings. The restoration team has been performing minor maintenance and systems tests on the ground while awaiting approval from the Pentagon.
“We still have to run medium and high-speed taxi tests, as well as other ground, systems and instrument testing prior to first flight. Those tests will begin soon and we hope to have the plane in the air within the next few weeks. Our restoration volunteers have worked 16 years to get this far and we’re a few final steps away completing the first stage of Doc’s mission to honor those who built, flew and maintained the B-29 warbird,” said Murphy.
The ground testing schedule and scheduling of first flight is weather dependent. Public viewing locations and a timeline for first flight will be released as the event approaches.
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WarbirdsNews will be sure to let you know as soon as we hear further details! Way to go Doc’s Friends!
Yeah, soon two Air worthy B-29s
I worked on B29s at Rome NY in 1956. We had special mission.
Two flying B-29s’s is definitely better than One. Kudos to Doc volunteers!