Restoring a Beech Super 18 to Former Glory

The Vintage Flying Museum plans to fly the Beech Super 18, once owned by aviation pioneer Jackie Cochran and entertainer Merv Griffin, to air shows to promote the history of women in aviation.

Sara Withrow

Friday, October 28, 2022 at 11:08 AM ET

Verified

The Vintage Flying Museum in Fort Worth is restoring this Beech Super 18 that was once owned by Jackie Cochran and Merv Griffin. Note the Merv Griffin Enterprises logo on the tail in this image, circa 1970s. [Courtesy: Vintage Flying Museum/Colin Adcock]

Key Takeaways:

The Vintage Flying Museum is restoring a historic Beechcraft Super 18, once owned by aviation pioneer Jackie Cochran and later by Merv Griffin for celebrity transport.
Dubbed the "Hollywood Bomber," this volunteer-led project aims for a first flight by July 2023, despite facing challenges such as extensive corrosion, engine overhauls, and the need for donations.
The project's vision is to create a flying exhibit that promotes the history of women in aviation and the corporate flying era of the '60s and '70s, with a specific goal for it to be operated and maintained by women.

See a mistake? Contact us.

A Beechcraft Super 18 that was once owned and flown by Jackie Cochran is being restored to its former glory. Cochran, who directed the civilian Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) in the 1940s, holds the distinction of being the first woman to break the sound barrier.

Once it is airworthy—volunteers project a first flight by July 2023, in time for EAA AirVenture at Oshkosh—the classic business air transport will be used to promote the history of women in aviation as a flying exhibit for the Vintage Flying Museum in Fort Worth, Texas.