CAF New England Wing Hosts Wings of Freedom Fly-In to Support PT-23 Restoration
(North Hampton, New Hampshire, June 23, 2025) - The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is made up of more than 80 unique units across the country and overseas. Among them, one self-described "smaller" Unit is taking on a big challenge—getting one of their assigned aircraft back in the air. The CAF New England Wing is launching its inaugural Wings of Freedom Fly-In to raise funds for the restoration of their assigned Fairchild PT-23.
The event, hosted in partnership with the Maine Center for Classic Aviation, will take place June 28 at Thompson Memorial Field in Pittsfield, Maine. The fly-in aims to bring together warbirds, vintage aircraft, and aviation enthusiasts for a full day of fun, all in support of the PT-23 restoration project.
Based out of Hampton Airfield in New Hampshire, the New England Wing was founded in 2021 by the late CAF ColAndy Travnicek and CAF Col Nick Infantino—one of the youngest Unit leaders in CAF history. The wing includes a small but passionate team of volunteer pilots and A&Ps from New Hampshire, Maine, and Massachusetts who are currently restoring the Unit’s Fairchild PT-23.
Often nicknamed the “Cradle of Heroes,” the PT-23 was a primary trainer that introduced countless World War II-era pilots to the basics of military flight. The aircraft operated by the New England Wing is especially rare—Serial No. 1, the very first production model of the PT -23. It’s also one of the few surviving PT-23s built by Fairchild itself, as most were constructed under license by Aeronca, Howard Aircraft, or the St. Louis Aircraft Corp. To return the aircraft to flight status, the team is currently awaiting the recovery and installation of a set of new ailerons—hinged control surfaces on the wings that help an aircraft roll and bank. Once installed, the Wing hopes to resume flight operations in the latter half of 2025.
Although relatively new, the CAF New England Wing has already established itself as a staple in the local aviation community. They actively participate in fly-ins, STOL competitions, airport open houses, and regional airshows—often bringing vintage aircraft to communities that rarely get to experience them up close. Now, they're calling on that same community to help get their PT-23 flying again.
The Wings of Freedom Fly-In, taking place on June 28 at Thompson Memorial Field—an incredible grass strip known for its rebuilt wooden hangars and vibrant vintage aircraft community—will be a free event during the day, offering a great chance to tour the field and view the aircraft. After 6 p.m., guests can enjoy live music and fireworks with a donation-based wristband. Visitors will be able to enjoy vintage aircraft on display, airplane rides for veterans and first responders, and lunch and dinner BBQs.
Even if you can’t attend, there are still ways to support the New England Wing and its restoration efforts. Anyone can become a member of the Wing and help preserve aviation history. The Unit meets monthly on the third Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at the Hampton Airport Flight School. You can also follow them on social media or visit their website to learn more about the project.
Help the CAF New England Wing "Keep 'Em Flying"—and bring a rare piece of World War II history back to life!
