In 2018, the Commemorative Air Force Southern California Wing at the Camarillo Airport began a comprehensive ground-up restoration on its Grumman F8F Bearcat. Stalled due to COVID, the restoration team resumed the project in 2021. The group is meticulously restoring this aircraft to ensure it meets historical accuracy and airworthiness standards. Now, in the critical phase of reassembly and painting, they are nearing the end of their restoration project. On Saturday, September 13th, CAF SoCal will conduct a presentation updating attendees on the progress of the intensive restoration and the road to returning the Bearcat to airshows and flyovers, where it has always been a crowd favorite due to its impressive speed, powerful engine noise, and aerobatic maneuvers.
CAF SoCal’s other iconic, flyable aircraft will also be on display, like the venerable Supermarine Spitfire, the agile Mitsubishi A6M Zero, and the Zero’s nemesis, the F6F Hellcat. For the adventurous, rides for hire will be available in several different vintage military aircraft. Light snacks will also be available for those seeking a quick bite.
So, mark your calendars to hear (and see!) the progress of this remarkable restoration in anticipation of soon seeing the Bearcat in flight alongside CAF SoCal’s F6F Hellcat, A6M3 Zero, and PBJ (B-25) Mitchell, a breathtaking tribute to Naval aviation history.
This event will take place on Saturday, September 13th, 2025, starting at 11:00 AM at the Commemorative Air Force aviation museum located at the Camarillo Airport, 455 Aviation Drive, Camarillo, California. Come and experience living history firsthand!
A suggested donation of $15 per adult will be requested at the door. Thank you for supporting our nonprofit museum.
