On February 28, 2024, a severe storm struck the area surrounding the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, damaging several aircraft parked outside the restoration hangar—some beyond repair. Among them was Lockheed F-104D Starfighter 57-1322. Though already in poor condition, the aircraft avoided scrapping when the MAPS Air Museum secured it on loan. The Starfighter arrived in North Canton, Ohio, in the summer of 2023. Since then, MAPS volunteers have undertaken an extensive restoration effort to return the Cold War-era interceptor to display condition. We spoke with volunteer Dave Pawski, who shared the latest developments on the project.
Much of the work is now nearing completion. The wings have been…..