F-14 Returns to the Sky (maybe)

[ravenclaw_007]

The United States Congress approved on April 28 2026 the so called "Maverick Act" ,  this allows the The Secretary of the Navy to hand over to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center Commission a certain number of F-14D (three), and restore at least one of them to flying conditions, and display them at airshows.

So let's wait and see.

Government Source:

 

Quote

The Secretary of the Navy (in this section referred to as the Secretary) may convey, without consideration, to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center Commission in Huntsville, Alabama (in this section referred to as the Commission), all right, title, and interest of the United States in and to 3 surplus F–14D Tomcat aircraft (Bureau Numbers 164341, 164602, 159437), which are excess to the operational requirements of the Navy.

https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/119/s4161/text

 

[Fdino]

Wonderfull! I read this news a few days ago. In my opinion, at least some of the F-14s could be kept airworthy for displays and air shows. It's very sad that one of the greatest fighters in history ends this way. I've always argued that the F-14 could still be flying if it received the upgrades that other aircraft of its time also received. But there are those who disagree, mainly arguing about the cost, which I also don't disagree with. But in the end, it's great news. ´´Any time baby´´:))

[rc1979]

I'm not sure I agree with that from a financial perspective, but it's cool nonetheless.

[daddyairplanes]

nice thought.

- however, this has only cleared one house of Congress, not both

- restoring one aircraft out of three to flying condition is going to be EXPENSIVE after 20 years sitting

-the US Government is not providing the funds to accomplish this. they will provide parts, if the commision that handles this pays for or replaces them

i'd love to see one flying again too (last air show observation was late 2004, then saw them overhead in Iraq a few times in 2005). im just not holding my breath on this....