The Mayor visited Gnoss Field in Novato yesterday on business for the Minister of Aviation. While walking about the airport, the Mayor noticed a vintage, twin engine, tail dragger with an unusual design: it lacked the customary single rudder assembly. The highly polished aluminum body sparkled in the bright afternoon sunlight. The plane was tied down, parked facing west, looking very distinguished.
A gentleman began taking closeup photos of the aircraft, and upon questioning he explained: this famous aircraft had been flown at one time by Amelia Earhart, the famous American aviator, lost at sea on an around the world flight before World War II. After walking up close and peering into the side windows, it was apparent that the plane was in beautiful shape. The man informed the Mayor that the plane was recently sold on ebay for $1.2 million to the Boeing Company for their museum in Seattle!
What a treat to be able to see this amazing relic, parked on this small air facility in Northern California before she arrives at her museum location. This aircraft was in private hands and fully restored by a local mechanic. It had been used in several films, including a recent film,"Amelia", about the career and disappearance of Amelia Earhart.
The aircraft has 2 -450hp Pratt & Whitney radial engines; ser.#1015; wing #NC14900.
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