Doc, the friendly B-29 bomber restored by retired Wichita aerospace workers, some of them the original workers that built the aircraft decades ago, will get its physical examination from the FAA starting March 14. The FAA will start with a review of the aircraft’s paperwork as a first step toward an airworthiness certificate.
It now appears the first flight could occur at the end of April or early May. The temperature must be at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit for an engine start. The winter weather in Wichita has been mild—good news for an aircraft spending it outside on the ramp across the airport from McConnell Air Force Base.
Doc can now hide from Wichita’s famous hail storms should they occur. The hangar that used to house Air Force One during routine inspections now has a new roof, and Doc can use it anytime the weather threatens. It will be used soon to put two new front tires on the aircraft.
Doc’s Friends are talking to Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport authorities about land for a permanent home, and will seek ways to finance a new building including pouring the concrete for the ramp. Other than that, Doc has newly greased flaps and a new tug to move the aircraft, and is itching to fly. (Disclosure: I am a contributor to Doc.)
