Do you know how important Ford Tri-Motors are in the history of US passenger aviation? Port Clinton, Ohio-based Tri-Motor Heritage Foundation (419-635-6383) is returning one to flying condition, and they need your support.
I’ll confess, I’m a big aviation enthusiast, so restoration projects like this are super interesting to me. However, you don’t need to be an aviation nut to see why this Ford Tri-Motor restoration project is exciting. You could have an opportunity to actually experience a flight in one of these old birds. Support this amazing work, and see what it was like to be a 1930s aviation pioneer.
Go to https://www.restoretheford.org for more information.
So, why is it so exciting? Ford Tri-Motors played an important role in aviation history, particularly for commercial passenger operations in the US. The Liberty Aviation Museum already operates one flying example, but the center states that they are becoming increasingly rare. With the recent appeal for funding, it is hoped that you will have more opportunities to experience a flight in one of these aircraft.
If they already have one, why do they need another? Well, only 199 For Tri-Motors were originally produced. Of those, a total of 18 are known to exist today, with less than 8 in airworthy condition. The aircraft were particularly important in Ohio, with Island Airlines having used them to service remote communities on the Lake Erie Islands from 1936 until the 1980s. The Tri-Motor Foundation muses that they were used for a host of purposes, including a school bus, ambulance, mail service, or hearse.
The current restoration project comprises a team of dedicated volunteers. Given the progress made, a full-time airframe mechanic is now also employed to oversee more technical elements. If you visit, you can now view large sections of the fuselage and wings. While work continues, the foundation recently suggested several ways that you can help it along.
Along with the funding needed to support the operation, some critical elements are still needed in order to complete the aircraft. These include engines, seats, landing gear strut assemblies, oil coolers, and radio equipment. I don’t have any of those lying about, unfortunately, but I’m certainly doing what I can to help. They need your support, too.
About Tri-Motor Heritage Foundation
Formed by local pilot Ken Benjamin in 2004, the Tri-Motor Heritage Foundation aims to preserve a piece of aviation history in such a way that all of us can experience it for ourselves. The Foundation is registered as a non-profit 501(c)3 charitable organization.
A representative of the foundation recently stated: “It is our hope that after visiting our website and seeing our progress to date, you will become a strong supporter of our endeavor.”
You might fly regularly, but stop for a moment and consider where it all started. With your support, you can experience that history too.
Get involved in the Tri-Motor restoration today. Check out https://www.restoretheford.org so you can learn more.
