Uploaded April 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
If you’re not already an AOPA pilot, we’d love for you to join us. aopa.org/ytmembership.
--
Originally purchased by the Wrigley family in 1946, this aircraft nicknamed “The Wasp” served as a flying link between Chicago and Catalina Island. After decades of history, it was lost, sold, and nearly forgotten… until it resurfaced in rough condition on a ramp in California.
What followed was a nearly decade-long restoration to bring this historic airplane back to its original 1940s glory.
--
Connect with us on social media!
Instagram: instagram.com/flywithaopa
Facebook: facebook.com/flywithaopa
Twitter: twitter.com/flywithaopa
TikTok: tiktok.com/@flywithaopa
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/aopa/mycompany/verification
Check out our merch: pilotgear.aopa.org
We’re AOPA, we keep flying safe, accessible, and fun for general aviation pilots, enthusiasts, and the general public by protecting, empowering, and supporting your freedom to fly. We are the most-recognized, go-to, one-stop, trusted preeminent resource for all things related to general aviation.
If you’re not already an AOPA pilot, we’d love for you to join us. aopa.org/ytmembership.
--
Originally purchased by the Wrigley family in 1946, this aircraft nicknamed “The Wasp” served as a flying link between Chicago and Catalina Island. After decades of history, it was lost, sold, and nearly forgotten… until it resurfaced in rough condition on a ramp in California.
What followed was a nearly decade-long restoration to bring this historic airplane back to its original 1940s glory.
--
Connect with us on social media!
Instagram: instagram.com/flywithaopa
Facebook: facebook.com/flywithaopa
Twitter: twitter.com/flywithaopa
TikTok: tiktok.com/@flywithaopa
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/aopa/mycompany/verification
Check out our merch: pilotgear.aopa.org
We’re AOPA, we keep flying safe, accessible, and fun for general aviation pilots, enthusiasts, and the general public by protecting, empowering, and supporting your freedom to fly. We are the most-recognized, go-to, one-stop, trusted preeminent resource for all things related to general aviation.
