44-85813 IN-L Champaign Lady

[imageleft|Champaign Lady|{UP}WikiPortrait.jpg]
The Champaign Lady is not an actual 401st Plane. It is a restoration project of a B-17G Flying Fortress, an iconic World War II bomber, being undertaken by the Champaign Aviation Museum located at Grimes Field in Urbana, Ohio. Here's a detailed overview of what is known about this aircraft and the restoration project:

* B-17 Flying Fortress Overview:
** '''Model:''' B-17G Flying Fortress
** '''Manufacturer:''' Boeing Aircraft Company
** '''Role:''' Heavy Bomber
** '''First Flight:''' July 28, 1935
** '''Introduced:''' 1938
** '''Primary Users:''' United States Army Air Forces (USAAF), Royal Air Force (RAF), and several others.
** '''Production:''' 12,731 units from 1936 to 1945.

* Historical Significance:
** '''World War II Service:''' The B-17 was one of the primary bombers used by the USAAF in the strategic bombing campaigns against Germany. It was known for its durability and ability to sustain significant damage and still return home.
** '''Nickname:''' "Flying Fortress" due to its defensive armament, which included up to 13 machine guns.

* The Champaign Lady Restoration:
** '''Initiation:''' The restoration project began in April 2005.
** '''Location:''' Champaign Aviation Museum, Grimes Field, Urbana, Ohio.
** '''Goal:''' To restore the B-17G to full flying condition.
** '''Project Name:''' "Champaign Lady"
** '''Progress:''' The restoration is being carried out by a dedicated team of volunteers, many of whom are veterans or aviation enthusiasts. The work involves sourcing original parts, fabricating new parts when necessary, and meticulously assembling the aircraft to meet FAA airworthiness standards.

* Restoration Details:
** '''Components:''' The restoration involves reconstructing the airframe, installing engines, electrical systems, hydraulics, and interior components.
** '''Challenges:''' Sourcing parts for a B-17 can be challenging due to the limited number of original components available. Volunteers often have to fabricate parts from scratch based on original blueprints.
** '''Engines:''' The B-17 is powered by four Wright R-1820-97 Cyclone radial engines, each producing 1,200 horsepower.
** '''Defensive Armament:''' The restoration includes fitting the aircraft with its original defensive armament layout, which includes machine guns in various positions such as the nose, tail, waist, and dorsal and ventral turrets.

* Importance of the Project:
** '''Educational Value:''' The project serves as an educational tool, teaching the public about the engineering, history, and operations of the B-17 during World War II.
** '''Tribute:''' The restoration is a tribute to the men and women who served and sacrificed during the war, particularly those who flew and maintained the B-17.
** '''Living History:''' Once completed, the "Champaign Lady" will serve as a living history exhibit, capable of flying and participating in air shows and other events to showcase the capabilities and historical significance of the B-17.

* Involvement:
** '''Volunteers:''' The project is heavily reliant on volunteers, including skilled machinists, engineers, and aviation enthusiasts. The museum provides training and opportunities for volunteers to contribute to the restoration effort.
** '''Funding:''' The restoration is funded through donations, sponsorships, and fundraising events. The museum often conducts tours and educational programs to engage the community and raise awareness about the project.

The "Champaign Lady" represents a significant effort to preserve a crucial part of aviation history, ensuring that future generations can experience and learn about the legendary B-17 Flying Fortress.
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Modified on 2024/05/17 19:22 by Administrator Categorized as Uncategorized