Approximately 150 airworthy examples of P-51 Mustangs exist worldwide today. This number includes aircraft found in museums, those actively flying, and units currently undergoing restoration.
P-51 Mustang: A Look at Remaining Aircraft
The North American P-51 Mustang was a formidable fighter aircraft of World War II, with an impressive production run that significantly impacted the war effort. While thousands were built, only a small fraction remain airworthy today, serving as historical artifacts and beloved warbirds.
Production vs. Survival
During World War II, the P-51 Mustang was produced in large quantities, with its "D" model being particularly prolific. The vast majority of these aircraft were either lost in combat, scrapped after the war, or suffered wear and tear over decades.
Here's a quick comparison of production versus current airworthy numbers:
| Category | Approximate Number |
|---|---|
| Total P-51s Produced | 15,000 |
| "D" Models Produced | 8,000+ |
| Airworthy P-51s Remaining | 150 |
What "Airworthy" Means
The term "airworthy" is crucial when discussing remaining aircraft. It means the aircraft is in a condition safe for flight and meets all regulatory requirements. This status can fluctuate as aircraft undergo maintenance, restoration, or are acquired by new owners.
Remaining P-51 Mustangs can typically be found in several capacities:
- Museum Collections: Many are preserved and displayed in aviation museums globally, allowing the public to appreciate their history and design up close.
- Active Flying: A select number are maintained in flying condition by private collectors, heritage organizations, or flight demonstration teams, participating in airshows and commemorative events.
- Under Restoration: Some Mustangs are undergoing extensive restoration processes to bring them back to airworthy status, which can be a multi-year effort requiring specialized skills and significant resources.
An example of a surviving P-51 Mustang is "Gunfighter," which was built at the North American plant in Inglewood, California, and accepted into the USAAF in March 1945. It represents one of the approximately 150 airworthy Mustangs that continue to tell the story of this iconic aircraft.
