Diamond Lil Status?

[Steve Nelson]

I notice Diamond Lil is still listed on the website for the Hamilton Airshow. Any chance she'll make it? The CAF site says she's currently in maintenance, I assume undergoing repairs from last year's incident.

SN

[b29flteng]

Lil is still undergoing repairs. All but a few of the new parts needed have been fabricated and are being trial fitted. Once everything has been fitted it will take no time at all to rivet the new pieces in place. The repair crew has a "D" model nose section to use as an example but even that was not the same as the "A" model nose.

It will be a last minute decision on whether she will make it to Hamilton or not.

[CWH Museum]

We have been receiving reports from CAF on the progress of ongoing repairs and that the timeline is tight for Hamilton. We certainly understand the time and effort required to keep these vintage aircraft airworthy and then maintain airshow committments.

[Steve Nelson]

Thanks for the update. I hope she makes it..I haven't seen Lil since '05, and don't think I've seen her in the air in over a decade. Of course, if she has to give Hamilton a miss I'll be bummed, but I certainly would rather see the repairs done right that rushed to meet a deadline.

SN

[Pogo]

Yes, thanks for the report, very much appreciated. I went for a flight in a Jenny today, quite understand the nature of keeping rare old airplanes alive & healthy.

[b29flteng]

We have been receiving reports from CAF on the progress of ongoing repairs and that the timeline is tight for Hamilton. We certainly understand the time and effort required to keep these vintage aircraft airworthy and then maintain airshow committments.

Thanks for the understanding attitude. We had some unexpected maintenance problems this past winter (engine change on FIFI in Midland) that took a lot of manpower away from Lil. We all hope to make it to Hamilton as the Canadians really know how to host a great show.

[Fouga23]

Any pics you could share of the repairs?

[LARGEFLYER]

Comments removed.

Last edited by LARGEFLYER on Tue May 14, 2013 7:18 pm, edited 1 time in total.

[Pogo]

Any pics you could share of the repairs?

I second the motion. We love that old gal.

[Red Baaron]

Pictures I saw late last week lead me to believe it will be a while before Diamond Lil is flying. I wouldn't bet on any appearance in June.