This aircraft is the trainer version of the F-80, which was the USAF’s first operational jet fighter. Also known as the “T-Bird,” this trainer version was flown regularly by General Russell Dougherty, particularly while serving at the Pentagon. The T-Bird on display came to the USAF in 1953. After serving with a Combat Crew Training Wing at Nellis AFB, NV, it was assigned to the 1st Fighter Wing at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, MI. It was then placed on static display at the Yankee Air Museum in Ypsilanti, MI. In January 2011. 27 years later, it was loaned to Warren County for restoration and placement in Aviation Heritage Park.
This aircraft is on loan from the National Museum of the USAF, Dayton, Ohio.
- Crew: 2
- Length: 37 feet, 9 inches
- Wingspan: 38 feet, 10.5 inches
- Height: 11 feet, 8 inches
- Powerplant: 1 Allison J33A35 turbojet
- Weight: Empty – 8,300 lbs., Max – 15,100 lbs.
- Max Speed: 600 mph, Cruise Speed: 455 mph
- Ceiling: 45,000 ft.
- Range: 1,275 miles
- Armament: none
