Representing two of the ultimate piston-powered U.S. Naval aircraft, a Grumman F7F Tigercat and a Grumman F8F Bearcat will arrive at Boeing Field in Seattle for aerial demonstrations in front of The Museum of Flight between 10 and 10:15 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 24 (weather permitting).
Based at the Historic Flight Foundation at Paine Field in Everett, Wash., the classic planes will make multiple passes by the museum followed by static display in the museum’s parking lot until 4:30 p.m. The pilots will be stationed by the aircraft for autographs and visitor questions. This event is free.
The Grumman F7F Tigercat was the the U. S. Navy’s first twin-engine fighter, and it outperformed all existing fighters. The Tigercat could reach speeds of 450 mph. While the plane was delivered to Marine combat units in 1944, it never saw World War II service. The plane’s fighter capabilities did see some use during the Korean War.
While the F8F just missed active duty in World War II, it served the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps for training and front-line duty. It flew in the Korean War and played bomber and escort roles for France, Thailand, and Vietnam.
For more information: MuseumOfFlight.org
