The only airworthy version left in the world of an ace World War 2 Russian plane will be showcased at next year's Warbirds Over Wanaka Airshow.
Gavin Johnston, general manager of Warbirds Over Wanaka, said he was thrilled the Lavochkin LA-9 would be seen at the show in April after a
two-year delay.
"It was supposed to be ready in time for the 2002 Airshow but due to complications with the rebuild of the engine, was unable to make it," he said in a statement.
Owned by Ray Hanna of England and Garth Hogan of Auckland, the LA-9 made its first post restoration flight in March.
The aircraft was then shipped to England where New Zealand pilot Keith Skilling flew her in various airshows with the Breitling Fighters.
The LA-9 was flown by some of the Soviet Union's top fighter aces in World War 2. There are no more than five in existence.
Warbirds Over Wanaka will be held on April 9-11 next year at Wanaka Airport.
- NZPA
