A group of volunteers known as ‘Ratones de Hangar’ works tirelessly to maintain the aviation history of Uruguay. Ramiro S Piacenza explores their restoration efforts
Restoration of Curtiss Falcon SNC-1 'E-205' was challenging and demanded many hours. It's now one of the jewels of the museum’s collection
ANTONIO BILHOTO
The Tiger Moth restoration is entering the painting phase, starting with the tailplanes
ANTONIO BILHOTO
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced the team to take protective measures in order to continue their activities
ALL EDUARDO LUZARDO UNLESS STATED
Materials for the Tiger Moth's fabric covering were purchased in the US and ferried to Uruguay by the South American nation's air force
Founded in 1941, the Museo Aeronáutico Coronel Aviador Jaime Meregalli is dedicated to preserving Uruguay’s aviation heritage. During its lifespan it has changed venues four times before settling on its current location in the premises of Carrasco International Airport, almost 17 miles from Montevideo, the country’s capital. It has a collection of 30 aircraft, together with related objects and an archive that represents the history of aviation in Uruguay. It also owns the only flyable warbird in the country: a FAU T-6 Texan, which takes to the air during official ceremonies and air shows.
