Hawaiian Airlines’ first airplane in its history will be coming back to the islands in September, in time to celebrate the airline’s 80th anniversary.
The carrier found that the plane belonged to a collector in Oregon and organized a largely volunteer restoration project to return the plane to flying condition.
Hawaiian Airlines’ anniversary is November 11, but the plane will be available for special flights and public appearances following its arrival and reassembly on Oahu. Hawaiian Airlines and vintage motor company Pratt and Whitney will cover the costs.
The Bellanca CH-300 Pacemaker was used to introduce Hawaii residents to air travel. Before Hawaiian Airlines began operating flights between islands, the Bellanca gave sightseeing tours over Honolulu.
