Phoenixes Rising from the Ashes

Warbirds — or historic aircraft maintained in airworthy condition — are the highlight of many air shows and have allowed many of us to experience the atmosphere of a time when their engines roared in the sky by the dozens.

Warbirds — or historic aircraft maintained in airworthy condition — are the

highlight of many air shows and have allowed many of us to experience the

atmosphere of a time when their engines roared in the sky by the dozens.

Naturally, World War II aircraft attract the most interest, linked to powerful

stories — whether their own or those of aircraft that no longer exist, whose paint

schemes and markings are now worn by other warbirds. In this way, they help

preserve the memory of these famous aircraft and, above all, their crews.

And last but not least, they remain technical gems.

I will devote today’s reflection to the topic of the rebirth of historic aircraft,

focusing specifically on those whose restoration is intended to result in

airworthiness. The goal is not to provide a complete list of aircraft undergoing

restoration, but to highlight a few interesting current projects. And in doing so, to

whet your appetite a bit and show that even in today’s world, full of paranoids in

the highest positions, madness, and destruction, there are people who build.

Who, with a love for technology, history, and also for flying, are working to ensure

that some phoenixes rise from their ashes.

B-17G "Champaign Lady" in the advanced stages of construction (Champaign Aviation Museum, Urbana, OH)

PHOENIXES RISING FROM THE ASHES

Text: Jan Zdiarský

INFO Eduard104

April 2026