in a 1942 Stearman biplane. " Dream Flights" will be here to fly veterans and I will be one of Riggs Manor's lucky 3 to get a ride. It is cold here, with a rain last night, so I am hoping they don't cancel.
I love airplanes in general, old ones particularly, and Stearmans specifically.
... So I Googled "1942 Stearman biplane" just to see what you are talking about. That looks like its going to be quite a memorable flight for you...try your best to stay warm!
Thanks, Brian. It will be quite a treat for me.
Anne and me with the biplane.
The flight was made possible free of charge by Ageless Aviation Dreams which is a non-profit foundation that flies seniors and veterans living in retirement homes and assisted living facilities.
The pilot was a crop sprayer from Nebraska, and the owner of the plane was from Columbus MS, and flies for Fed Ex. He is a former air force instructor pilot. He said the Stearman has been in his family since 1946. He also said they bought it for $ 1400, and have just put a new engine on it that cost $ 53,000.
It was great fun, but was also very cold. as the ground temp was 44 degrees with a pretty good wind. Quite a day for me.
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7871/40559771463_76fa37fbd3_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/24N8qYx)IMGP3410 (https://flic.kr/p/24N8qYx) by john gorday (https://www.flickr.com/photos/161851952@N07/), on Flickr
COOL pic (no pun intended) of the two of you and the plane!!
Sounds like a lot of fun John. Did you walk the wings? ::)
lol No wing walking. No loops, no rolls. I was ok with that !
Start up to shut down was about half hour.
Really happy for you John! I may get my ride around Daytona one of these up and coming birthdays or something!
Rett
I hope you do, Rett. I'd be scared.
Looks like a lot of fun John. I'm glad you had the opportunity to take that flight.
Bob
What an AWESOME picture of you two and a great Plane. The Stearman is one of my favorite Bi-Planes also. it looks as though you folks had a good time in spite of the chilliness.