Damage From August 2024 Microburst Repaired

The Commemorative Air Force’s Cessna UC-78 Bobcat has returned to its home with the Jayhawk Wing based at Westport Airport (71K) outside Wichita, Kansas, after months of dedication and hard work to repair the damage it sustained during a microburst at McConnell Air Force Base in August 2024.

The restoration work was extensive and required the dedication and expertise of volunteers to bring the aircraft back to airworthy condition.

Bob Sorenson, operations officer, mechanic, and pilot was excited to talk about the aircraft’s recovery. He said, “Since finding replacement parts, recovering what we could, and reassembling, the Bobcat is ready to go home.”

The Jayhawk Wing was very grateful for the contributions of Safety Officer Louise Keeling, Executive Officer Doug Snead, and Finance Officer Ken Newell.

Newell also extended his thanks for the support the Wing received saying, “We want to thank everyone who donated and shared words of encouragement. It means a lot to us, and we’re looking forward to what’s ahead.”

Since the UC-78 Bobcat is back in its home hangar, the Wing will shift to getting the aircraft prepped for the coming flight season. Routine winter maintenance is being done to ensure it will be in top condition for future flights.

There is no word yet on the schedule for this season, but now that the days are getting longer we know it’s not too far off!

FMI:  www.cafjayhawks.org/