City of Renton

Air Classics, Feb 2001 by O'Leary, Michael

Throughout the restoration, work had been coordinated with the FAA through their Designated Engineering Representatives for Airworthiness. Buell Wood represented the volunteers in this effort. On 26 April 1994, the transport was pushed out of the hangar in preparation for oiling and fueling. Engine pre-oiling was accomplished on 28 April but a problem with the starter on the number two engine prevented engine runs. Finally, on 3 May, the Boeing was ready and the engines were fired up for the first time in 17 years. This was a very important moment for the gathered volunteers who realized that the flight date was finally getting near.

The 16th of June was selected for first flight. The Boeing had been weighed and refueled, instruments had been installed and all systems checked. The 247-D was signed off for flight by Buell Wood at 2:47 pm. Boeing test pilots Richard "Buzz" Nelson and Jim McRoberts were to make the first flight. A large media contingent was present as the Boeing taxied under its own power for the first time in 17 years. Moving out onto the Paine Field taxiway, the aircraft moved to the north end for engine runs. After these checks, the plane began to head for takeoff but the left main wheel tire went flat and the flight had to be canceled!

After the craft was towed to the hangar and the wheel removed, it was found that the tube had split. New tubes and tires were ordered but attempts to install the new units were to no avail. The beads simply could not be stretched over the rims. After a few days of frustration, the decision was made to install the new tubes in the original tires to get the plane ready to fly to Boeing Field for the scheduled Flight Fest on 9/10 July. It was the 28th of June and the fest was to honor vintage airliners and the 247-D was scheduled to be displayed with the sole surviving Boeing 307 Stratoliner, the first 747, a Constellation, and other airliners.

On 29 June, the old tires were remounted with new tubes and the wheels were reinstalled. The brakes were bled and rechecked and the plane was, hopefully, ready to go. Low clouds had moved in and were not dissipating by the afternoon as anticipated. Buzz Nelson determined the ceiling was high enough for a local flight to check out the 247. However, few volunteers were present and a lot of frantic phone calls were made. Buzz and co-pilot Paul Lechman got aboard and started the engines at about 4:00 pm. Engines runs proved satisfactory and after a very short run, the 247-D was airborne to the cheers of the volunteers.

Buzz had planned a flight of about one-half hour so the volunteers were surprised to see the plane returning after a few minutes. The oil temperature on number one was high while the oil pressure was down. Buzz said the plane handled well and except for the one problem everything looked good for attending Flight Fest.

Another test flight was made on 4 July and everything checked out. Buzz and Ed Hoyt took the 247-D to Boeing Field on 7 July and during that event the 247-D flew in a parade of vintage aircraft where it formed a very distinct contrast with number one Boeing 777.