Former Thunderbird Jet to Join Tulsa Air Space Museum with Support from Rep. Kevin Hern
A former U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16C Fighting Falcon jet, serial number 86-0281, is set to become a permanent display at the Tulsa Air & Space Museum (TASM). The acquisition of this significant aircraft was made possible with assistance from the Oklahoma Office of Management and Enterprise Services, and notably, with support and assistance from the offices of Rep. Kevin Hern and Sen. Alan Armstrong, both Republicans from Oklahoma. The F-16, which served as Thunderbird No. 1 during the 2006 season, is expected to arrive at the museum within three to six months, following necessary preparation, transportation, and installation work. TASM is launching a fundraising campaign, 'Operation: Thunderbird,' to raise $60,000 to cover costs associated with its preparation, specialized transport, restoration, preservation, engineering, mounting, and installation. The museum plans to position the F-16 near its entrance, making it a prominent feature for visitors to both TASM and Tulsa International Airport.
