>> Flightline | P-51D “Nooky Booky IV”
A legend in the air
The North American P-51D Mustang ‘Nooky Booky IV’ is much more than just an aircraft: it is a symbol of aviation history and the heroism of the Second World War. Now proudly displayed and maintained in flying condition by the prestigious Flying Bulls collection, based in Salzburg, Austria, this aircraft embodies both the technological power of its era and a rich history that has spanned the decades.
Origines et histoire
Built in 1945 in Inglewood, California, with serial number 44-74427, this P-51D-30-NA Mustang never saw combat during the war. Completed too late for delivery to the USAAF, it was stored before beginning a second life in 1950 with the Royal Canadian Air Force under serial number 9592. After being withdrawn from service in 1959, it joined the civilian market, passing through the hands of several owners in the United States and Europe.
Among its former pilots was aviation legend Bob Hoover, famous for his acrobatics and exploits, who flew it in the 1960s under registration number N2251D. After an eventful career, marked by accidents and restorations, the aircraft was acquired in 2021 by the Flying Bulls, who have given it a new lease of life.
A superb addition to the Flying Bulls collection
Acquired in March 2021 from its previous owner Christian Amara (founder of the AIR LEGEND airshow), where it was known as F-AZSB, ‘Nooky Booky IV’ joined the Flying Bulls collection after a memorable ferry flight by experienced pilot George Perez. Since then, it has been meticulously restored and shines in pristine condition, ready to impress at airshows.
Technical specifications
- Engine: Rolls-Royce Merlin V-1650-7, 12-cylinder V-twin, 1,490 bhp
- Maximum speed: Approximately 703 km/h (437 mph)
- Wingspan: 11.28 m
Length: 9.83 metres - Empty weight: 3,465 kg
- Range: Over 2,600 km with drop tanks
- Original armament: 6 Browning M2 12.7 mm machine guns (not operational on this civilian model)
Quelques photos de l'appareil
Aircraft type: Chasseur Operator: The Flying Bulls Pilot: Eskil Amdal Manufacturing date: 1945 Serial number: 44-74427