Sitka spruce for the restauration of the only original flying Nieuport 28 in the world

America’s very first fighter! The Nieuport 28 was operated by the 94th Aero Squadron, the famous: “Hat in the Ring” squadron in WW1. Originally built by Lioré and Olivier under license. Once fully restored, this aircraft will be the only original Nieuport 28 in flying condition in the world.

The Nieuport is owned by the Collings Foundation [ www.collingsfoundation.org ] who will display and fly the aircraft at the American Heritage museum in Hudson Massachusetts.

The Collings foundation entrusted the restoration to the able hands of pilot and restorer Mikael Carlson, one of the most experienced and knowlegeable WW1 aircraft restorers in the world.

The restoration was undertaken at Mikaels private airfield in Southern Sweden with a combination of classical craftsmanship, great attention to detail and  meticulous adherence to the historical structure. Mikael owns his own airfield in southerns Sweden where he builds and flies his amazing aircraft. [ aerodrome.se ]

 While it is important to use as many parts of the original aircraft as possible, some parts could not be salvaged. The aircraft had also been modified for movie work in 1930’s which had to be redressed.

Touchwood took part in this incredible restoration by providing the necessary Sitka spruce and consulting on the production of rare wood veneers employed.