Historic airplane makes its way to the Mat-Su Valley

WASILLA — Local pilot Alan Carpenter recently acquired a unique piece of history, a fully functional Noorduyn Norseman, also known as the C-64 Norseman.

The C-64 Norseman is a Canadian single-engine bush plane that was first flown in 1935, according to the National Museum of the United States Airforce website. The plane was designed for challenging arctic operations across Canada. It can be equipped with wheels, floats, or skis.

This is what opened up Canada to their exploration of resources. This is the airplane that brought people and supplies in and out of places,” Carpenter said

Carpenter expressed immense excitement over this unique opportunity. He said that he purchased the plane from an individual in Minnesota.

“I never thought I'd have the opportunity to fly it someday," Carpenter said.

According to Carpenter, there are only about 10 of these Norseman airplanes across the world that are currently in flying condition.

“There aren't many left. It's a very historic airplane," Carpenter said. “It's just an awesome airplane and I feel privileged. I couldn't be more pleased.”

Norseman airplanes have an extensive history of military and civilian service. The model was used by the U.S. Army Aircorps during WWII.

Carpenter said the plane he purchased has a rich history. He said he has a large collection of logbooks and knows that the plane was used during the Korean War.

"It was a warbird," Carpenter said.

Carpenter's Norseman was fully restored and repainted. He said that he intends to get it certified to use for his charter business Alaska Flying Adventures LLC.

"It flies beautifully," Carpenter said. "We'll see where it all goes. I just want to fly it well and protect it… I see the love that other pilots have had for this plane over the years."

Carpenter said that it was a long but sentimental journey to bring the plan to Alaska. He said that they made it a point to make a stop in Red Lake, Ontario, the "Norseman Capital of the World."

This gave several people, including an elderly pilot who went on numerous flights with this particular plane, a chance to see the aircraft and bask in the memories long past.

"It was emotional. It was touching. It was the best part of our trip," Carpenter said.

Carpenter didn't have to make his journey back to the Last Frontier alone. He was joined by his friend and a lifelong pilot, Dave Danielson. Danielson helped connect Carpenter to the plane and accompanied him the whole way.

"It really helps to have someone else in the cockpit with you," Carpenter said.

Danielson said that he's happy for Carpenter, and he's thrilled that this historic airplane can be used just as effectively now as it did many years ago.

"We're fortunate to still have it around," Danielson said.

Carpenter said that he is grateful for the opportunity to keep a piece of history alive and well for years to come.

"More people will have an opportunity to learn about this airplane. I think a lot of people are going to enjoy seeing it flying in it," Carpenter said.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com