The B-29 Superfortress known as “Doc.” A non-profit group has set up a Kickstarter to restore the plane. (Photo Courtesy Doc’s Friends)
A group of aviation enthusiasts is trying to restore a B-29 Superfortress to working order, and has set up a Kickstarter campaign for donations.
The non-profit group Doc’s Friends is trying to raise funds to restore the 1945 B-29 known as “Doc,” named for one of the dwarves in Walt Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, the group’s website says.
“After spending 42 years deteriorating in the western Mojave Desert at the U.S. Naval Weapons Testing Center, B-29 Doc was rescued in 1998 by Tony Mazzolini and an intrepid group of volunteers,” the group’s Kickstarter page says. “Despite initial roadblocks, Mazzolini’s passion and persistence are now paying off and will soon culminate in the form of a flying tribute to the Greatest Generation.”
The group is looking to raise $137,500 by Oct. 30. Most of the money will cover insurance and fuel, with some covering parts and maintenance. As of Oct. 14, the project was a little under half-way funded.
When fully repaired, Doc would be only the second airworthy Superfortress, the group said, adding they hope the restored plane will be able to take off for the first time later this year and serve as a flying museum.
