Thunderbolt first flight

AirCorps Aviation of Bemidji (MN), has announced the successful first flight of their latest restoration project, Republic P-47D-23RA 42-27609 (c/n 1771 ) on 13 May 2023. This Thunderbolt is owned by and restored for the Dakota Territory Air Museum in North Hill, Minot (ND).

The fighter had a successful first engine run of its Pratt & Whitney Double Wasp R-2800 radial on 27 October 2022. Scramble reported then on this event and the full history of the plane can also by found in that post.

It can be assumed that the fighter will have to pass a period of test flights before it can be delivered to the Dakota Territory Air Museum.

Photo: AirCorps Aviation