Historic Flight Foundation At Kilo-7 Offers Collection Of Important Aircraft Produced Between 1927 And 1957
In Flight USA thanks the Historic Flight Foundation and HFF volunteer Liz Matzelle for the use of our cover photo. The Foundation website is www.historicflight.org.Historic Flight’s mission goes beyond serving as trustees of an era. They want you to experience the roar of their F8F “Wampus Cat” taking off; Watch engineers at work restoring the aircraft to flying condition; Share the rush of viewing international treasures from all angles.
Whether you’re an experienced aviator, a student of history, or a newcomer to aviation, Historic Flight will spark and fuel your passion. Sited at the southwest corner of Paine Field, Wash., Kilo-7 offers a journey into the energy, hard work, and passion that fueled aviation from 1927 through 1957. Like the aircraft in their collection, the hangars at Kilo-7 are designed to reflect beauty, durability, and honestly expressed materials.
Every aircraft in their collection has a unique “backstory.” Some are packed with drama, some simply offer prime examples of the roles aviation played during 1927–1957— and fun facts about the people and events that make up the aviation world. Dig into to collection, learn more, and come back soon for new stories! The collection includes the following and their stories can be found on the organization’s website: http://historicflight.org/hf/collection/ The collection includes Waco Upf-7, North American P-51b, Mustang, Supermarine Spitfire Mk. Ixe, Grumman F8f Bearcat, Canadair T-33 Silverstar, Beechcraft, Staggerwing D-17s, North American B-25d Mitchell, and Grumman F7f Tigercat.
The Historic Flight Foundation is open Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and other times by appointment. Hours expand during the summer. For more information, please see their webiste at www.historicflight.org or telephone (425) 348-3200. The foundation is located at 10719 Bernie Webber Drive, Mukilteo, WA 98275.
Upcoming Flight Operations at the Historic Flight Foundation
Nov. 29, “Christmas Ships,” 7:00 p.m., HFF: Join us for a bird’s eye view of the inaugural voyage of the Christmas Ships, in our de Havilland Beaver. The pre-flight briefing will feature hot chocolate and homemade cookies. Groups of four are encouraged. $50 from each flight lands at the Forgotten Children’s Fund. For a complete schedule, visit www.historicflight.org
Dec. 7, “Exceptionally Plane People,” 12-1:30, HFF: In our second presentation of the winter series, historian David Lednicer will describe the little-known accomplishments of certain Grumman employees. Learn about what was going on behind the scenes at the Bethpage factory before and during WWII. Much of this archival research cannot be found in history books. January and February presentations will feature the exceptionally plane people of Waco and Supermarine.
Dec. 14, “Santa Arrives via Staggerwing,” noon, HFF: Families, please visit for homemade cookies, cider and hot chocolate. And the jolly old man will test-fly his Staggerwing prior to arrival at noon. Children of all ages may consult with Santa concerning their recent behavior and holiday expectations. Everyone goes home with a free photo. Happy Holidays from HFF.
Jan. 18, “Exceptionally Plane People,” 12-1:30, HFF: In our third presentation of the winter series, historian and educator Barry Latter will reveal endearing secrets from the archives of Vickers Supermarine. Hear tales of heroism in production of what was then the world’s best interceptor (the Spitfire) despite almost daily bombardments. All of this delivered with an English accent. Tea and biscuits, of course.
