Tulsa Museum Added Lady Liberty A-26 Invader
The historic aircraft joined the museum collection following a nose gear collapse incident in 2025.
Updated on Sept. 27, 2026 in Air Travel
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The Tulsa Air and Space Museum has officially added the Lady Liberty A-26 Invader to its collection. The historic aircraft was dedicated at the museum during its 1940s Hangar Dance on September 27, 2026.
Why it matters
The acquisition preserves a significant piece of aviation history that was forced into retirement following a mechanical failure. The aircraft will now serve as a permanent static display for the local community and visitors to the Tulsa museum.
The A-26 Invader reached a speed of 65 mph during the takeoff incident at Ponca City Airport that damaged its nose gear. The aircraft was originally built in Long Beach, California, before its service with the Commemorative Air Force.
The players
Tulsa Air and Space Museum
This local institution preserves aviation history and provides educational exhibits to the public.
Lady Liberty A-26 Invader
This historic aircraft is a retired military vehicle now serving as a museum display piece.
Commemorative Air Force
This non-profit organization works to restore and preserve vintage aircraft for flight and education.
The details
After the aircraft suffered a nose gear collapse during takeoff in November 2025, it was dismantled and transported to Tulsa for extensive repairs. Museum staff and volunteers collaborated to reassemble the plane and convert it into a static display.
Timeline
November 2025: The aircraft suffered a nose gear collapse at Ponca City Airport.
September 27, 2026: The aircraft was officially dedicated at the museum.
Travel Outlook
The dedication ceremony followed the established tradition of the museum's annual 1940s Hangar Dance. This event highlights how regional museums leverage themed cultural gatherings to increase public engagement with their historical collections.
Visitors can now view the Lady Liberty A-26 Invader at the museum as part of its permanent collection. Those interested in supporting the ongoing preservation of the aircraft can contribute via the museum's designated funding channels.
The takeaway
Retiring historic aircraft into static displays is a common practice that allows the public to safely interact with rare machines. Maintaining these artifacts requires ongoing community support and volunteer-led restoration efforts.
What happens next
The museum continues to accept donations to support the ongoing restoration work for the aircraft's display.
Further reading
Discover more about local exhibits and aviation history on the Air Travel page.
More information
Contribute to the effort by visiting the donation portal for restoration.
Source note: This article includes information reported by News On 6.
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