Waldo Wright's Flying Service

History isn’t just something we display here—it’s something we bring back to life. Waldo Wright’s Flying Service is where the past meets the present, where skilled hands and passionate hearts meticulously restore vintage aircraft to their former glory.

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Waldo "Rob" Wright’s story is one of passion, dedication, and an unwavering love for aviation. What began in 1995 as a dream to restore two New Standard biplanes has evolved into one of the most respected restoration shops in the country. After years of thrilling passengers with rides in rare barnstorming aircraft, Waldo made a pivotal decision in 2020—to dedicate his entire operation to the restoration and preservation of historic aircraft.

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Waldo’s journey began at an airshow, where he saw a pilot flying rides in a New Standard and immediately knew he had found his calling. Over the next three decades, he honed his craft, working alongside industry legends, including Craig Sinclair of Sinclair Aircraft and his own father, Bob Lock, to master the art of vintage aircraft restoration.​

 

Attention to detail has led to the rebirth of numerous iconic aircraft, including:

✦ New Standard Biplanes – Built to recapture the excitement of barnstorming’s heyday, these aircraft safely carried over 300,000 passengers during their flying service.

✦ 1942 Boeing Stearman – The legendary primary trainer of WWII, restored to perfection.

✦ 1946 Aeronca Champ – A five-year labor of love, completed in 2015 by Jill Manka.

✦ 1929 Travel Air – A nine-year restoration that culminated in a triumphant test flight in 2018, followed by participation in the American Barnstormers Tour across five states.

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At Mustang Field, the Waldo Wright Restoration Shop serves as more than just a workspace—it’s a living exhibit, where visitors can witness firsthand the artistry and precision required to breathe new life into antique aircraft.

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One of the shop’s most unique offerings is Owner Assisted Restoration—a rare opportunity for aircraft owners to become part of their plane’s history by actively participating in the restoration process. This hands-on approach not only deepens their appreciation for aviation’s golden era but also equips them with the knowledge and confidence to care for their aircraft for years to come.

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Our commitment to aviation preservation is rooted in more than nostalgia—it’s about keeping these stories alive. Every aircraft that passes through Waldo Wright’s Restoration Shop carries with it a legacy of innovation, adventure, and courage. Whether it’s a plane that once trained America’s WWII pilots or a barnstorming workhorse that introduced thousands to the thrill of flight, these machines are more than metal and fabric—they are living history.