The Warbird Saviors Inside the Restoration Community

Aero Traders in Chino, California, is usually assumed to be the “B-25 Kings.” So when owner Rod Lewis tasked them with restoring the sole flying Douglas A-20 Havoc to 100 percent historical accuracy, they had their work cut out for them.

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When countries began ridding themselves of their propeller-driven fighters in the early ’60s, Mustangs being the most numerous, they gravitated home to the United States. With the prices of a flying Mustang running as low as $2,500 ($20K in 2019 dollars) or less, the airplanes were not out of the reach of sport pilots wanting more “sport” than was commonly available. Moreover, many of the North American marvels had just been released from military service,...

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All the stories featured in Flight Journal are as unique and varied as the airplanes and warriors who flew them. From popular warbirds like the P-51 Mustang and Me 109 to the Lockheed SR-71 and futuristic hypersonic fighters, we cover the whole spectrum of aviation. We’ve heard from countless readers over the years about how much they enjoy the compelling stories and beautiful photography.