After Slumbering in the Hangar for a Lengthy Overhaul, Houston's Fairchild Returns to Duty

The Commemorative Air Force's Houston Wing announced the completed restoration of their classic Fairchild PT-19, following a long seven-year stretch of restoring the aircraft.

The Fairchild was given the full-service resto, too, being stripped down to the bare airframe for a complete rebuild. Luckily, the Houston Wing was able to use much of its wings and horizontal stabilizers, since they required very minor repairs. The team added all-new electrical and hoses as they went, adding a few ounces of 'cure' to prevent a few pounds of headaches in the future. The main landing gear were all rebuilt too, before moving on to the tailwheel for a similar rehab. Once everything was working great mechanically, the team moved on to painting the fuselage, wings, and flight surfaces so the PT-19 would come away parade ready. 

Then, as anyone familiar with projects knows, the last little problem reared its head, requiring another 14 months to replace the engine. In the end, the PT-19 came away as new as a nearly centennial aircraft can be in 2024, taxiing out of the hangar to be put through its first test flight on June 25th.

“Test pilot Ed Vesley reported no significant issues throughout the one-hour flight," said the Houston Wing in an announcement. "We'll now continue to fly the PT-19 for a few more hours to break in the engine, and then it will be put back on the flight line, hopefully in time to offer rides at our July 13 event at Houston Executive Airport.”

That's good news for fans of the CAF, since the PT-19 is a very tame, classic workhorse to provide rides in a vintage aircraft.

The CAF's official line sent out its congratulations to the Houston folks, too. "The PT-19's return to airworthy status celebrates heritage, craftsmanship, and the passion of those who work to keep aviation history alive. The Houston Wing members have brought history back to life, ensuring the PT-19's legacy continues to inspire and educate."

FMI: www.commemorativeairforce.org