The CAF-Tampa Bay Wing NEEDS your help in preserving our flying history!
We crossed 101% of our goal in 19 days! Let's keep the program rolling to keep our PT-19 flying for many years. With your help, we can reach our new goal of $12,500. The Tampa Bay Wing plans to use the PT-19 to educate the public about military aviation history.
Help Us Preserve Aviation History!
We are at 98%, just $140, away from reaching our goal! I am genuinely overwhelmed by the tremendous support we have received to keep aviation history alive and soaring through the skies. Repainting our beloved PT-19 will guarantee many more years of flight and adventure.
I hope we can surpass our goal by the end of next week. Please take a moment to share our campaign link across your social media platforms. Your support will be crucial in ensuring this incredible piece of aviation history continues to fly for years to come!
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History
During World War II, the U.S. had a vast network of military airbases to prepare the forces needed for combat. The Fairchild PT-19, a low-wing monoplane, introduced aspiring pilots to flying military aircraft, serving as the primary trainer for many U.S. Army Air Corps cadets. Its simple design and durability made it reliable for the rigorous demands of wartime training, with thousands of pilots earning their wings in these planes across military training bases nationwide.
Project
Sporting the iconic blue and yellow paint scheme of World War II trainers, this Fairchild PT-19, #50, proudly showcases its rich heritage. However, time has taken its toll, and the paint is fading. Beyond aesthetics, the paint on warbirds is crucial for protecting the aircraft’s structure from the elements and preventing corrosion. Funds raised during this year’s 12 Planes of Christmas will go toward a complete paint restoration for this PT-19, ensuring it retains its historic appearance and is well-protected against weather and wear for years.
Objective
During the War, Florida housed 170 military installations, many airbases dedicated to training Army Air Corps and Navy pilots. Tampa Bay Wing members proudly share their aircraft with the community to raise awareness of Florida’s role as a key training ground for pilots. The Wing plans to offer ride programs, allowing the public to experience aviation history firsthand. Located at the same airport as the Aerospace Center of Excellence, the Wing also collaborates with the school to educate students about the evolution of aviation technology and history.
ABOUT 12 PLANES OF CHRISTMAS
Each year the CAF holds an annual fundraiser to help support and highlight aircraft projects for planes in need of restoration, maintenance or repairs. Donors may contribute to a specific aircraft project or to the CAF’s Restoration Grant Fund.
Don’t want to donate online?
Call 877-767-7175,
ext. 105 or mail check to: CAF Headquarters, P.O. Box 764769, Dallas,
TX, 75376
The Restoration Grant Fund
The Restoration Grant
Fund is a dollar-for-dollar match program created to help aircraft
projects with the most need get back into the air faster.
Giving to a Specific Aircraft Project
If you
have a particular affinity for an airplane, you can make a direct
contribution to the aircraft.
Products
All donations of $500 or more will receive a one-hour ride in our PT-19—experience flying in an open-cockpit aircraft that trained so many pilots during WWII. The certificate is valid for individuals over 18 years old, 225 pounds or less, not pregnant, and able to enter and exit the aircraft unassisted. The certificate may be used at Lakeland Linder Airport with 2-week scheduling in advance or at any Ride Program days at airports in Florida.
This is our first Challenge Coin to celebrate our aircraft assignment. The PT-19 is on one side, and our aircraft number 42-48004 is on the Tampa Bay logo on the other. It is a great addition to any Challenge Coin collection. In addition, you also receive our PT-19 T-shirt dedicated to our PT-19.
Highlights
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All donations of $500 or more will receive a one-hour ride in our PT-19—experience flying in an open-cockpit aircraft that trained so many pilots during WWII. The certificate is valid for individuals over 18 years old, 225 pounds or less, not pregnant, and able to enter and exit the aircraft unassisted. The certificate may be used at Lakeland Linder Airport with 2-week scheduling in advance or at any Ride Program days at airports in Florida.
This is our first Challenge Coin to celebrate our aircraft assignment. The PT-19 is on one side, and our aircraft number 42-48004 is on the Tampa Bay logo on the other. It is a great addition to any Challenge Coin collection. In addition, you also receive our PT-19 T-shirt dedicated to our PT-19.
