Effort underway to name Indiana state aircraft

EVANSVILLE, Ind. (Inside INdiana Business) — The P-47 Thunderbolt “Hoosier Spirit II” would be designated as the official state aircraft of Indiana if a bill introduced in the House is able to pass. State Representative Wendy McNamara (R-76) is introducing the measure in House Bill 1197, which is co-sponsored by Rep. Matt Hostettler (R-64), Rep. Holli Sullivan (R-78) and Rep. Sharon Negele (R-13).

The P-47 Thunderbolt known as “Tarheel Hal” arrived in October at the Evansville Wartime Museum, which will be formally renamed “Hoosier Spirit II” in honor of the first P-47 made at the Republic Aviation Plant in Evansville, which was named “Hoosier Spirit.”

The renaming also includes a new paint scheme and design to reflect its Indiana history. Fundraising efforts are underway from the Evansville P-47 Foundation. Donations can be made by clicking here.