Europe Tour
Gleaming in new paint, UC-64, Noorduyn serial 365 now wears its USAAF serial 35374 (43-5374).
A quick trip to Europe provided an opportunity to see progress with the three Norseman (plus one static) that are being restored to their warbird identities and perhaps one day will fly together at an airshow! More precisely, LN-TSN in Norway was restored about nine years ago and flying until the COVID years and a needed engine overhaul grounded it to the present. This Norseman was the only airworthy example on the continent although with the other two located in the Netherlands coming together it is an exciting time for a Norseman enthusiast. The aircraft’s designer, Robert Noorduyn was from the Netherlands and this is the connection with the airplanes.
35374’s nicely organized and clean cockpit looking very original.
After a road trip from the paint shop, 35374 is unloaded at its new home, Lelystad airport.
The other Netherlands Norseman is also located at Lelystad airport although in the Aviodrome museum at the east end of the airfield. This long term project is slowly working out the electrical wiring and continues sourcing for authentic parts in a quest for a “factory fresh” UC-64 Norseman.
Noorduyn serial 774 at the Aviodrome. USAAF serial 44-70509.
The next stop was at the Norwegian Armed Forces Aircraft Collection, Gardermoen airport located north of Oslo, Norway. The collection has a Mk IV, Noorduyn serial 64 on static display in the colours of the Royal Norwegian Air Force when it was in service during the 1950s. This Norseman was originally RCAF 2491 until transferred to Norway through mutual aid.
Mk IV serial 64, R AV. Note ski gear positioned by main wheel.
Lastly, in the maintenance bay of the collection LN-TSN, Noorduyn serial 780 is awaiting final installation of the overhauled R-1340 piston radial engine. It is hoped this UC-64/USAAF serial 44-70515 will be back in the air before the end of summer. Note that LN-TSN came off the line only 6 numbers after the Aviodrome’s.
The engine on the stand needs some adjustment to fit properly.
Beautifully restored LN-TSN is owned by the Norwegian Aviation Museum and operated for them by the Norwegian Spitfire Foundation.