Philippine Mars Flying Boat Finds New Home at Pima Air & Space Museum: A Journey Through Aviation History
The Philippine Mars, one of only two surviving JRM Martin Mars flying boats, has completed its epic journey to the Pima Air & Space Museum in Tucson, Arizona. This monumental aircraft, rich in history and significance, arrived early Saturday, marking a new chapter in its storied existence.
The final leg of the trip was a carefully orchestrated 150-mile highway trek from Lake Pleasant, north of Phoenix. Imagine the sight: a massive fuselage, formerly soaring through the skies, now carefully transported on a trailer, navigating roads and towns, drawing onlookers and enthusiasts alike.
“Pretty much the entire town would be out there, because basically, we kind of were the hottest thing in town moving through with this,” said Aaron Goldstein with Southwest Rigging, highlighting the excitement the move generated.
Before its land-based adventure, the Philippine Mars made its final flight from Vancouver Island to Lake Pleasant in early February. There, it underwent careful disassembly, with engines, tail, and wings removed and shipped separately to the museum. This meticulous process ensured safe transit for the oversized load.
The Martin Mars aircraft were originally built for the Navy during World War II, though they were completed too late to see combat. The Navy used them primarily for cargo and personnel transport between Hawaii and California. Think of them as the cargo planes of their day, albeit ones that landed on water!
The Philippine Mars and its sister ship, Hawaii Mars, were later converted into self-loading water bombers by Canadian companies. For nearly 40 years, these behemoths skimmed across lakes, scooping up tons of water to combat wildfires, a crucial role that saved them from the scrapyard.
Karen Serkowski, a plane enthusiast since childhood, expressed her excitement upon seeing the Mars. Bruce Sublette, a Marine veteran and parachutist, marveled at the aircraft's engineering. Their reactions underscore the profound impact this aircraft has on those who appreciate aviation history.
“Amazing, absolutely amazing that they could build something like this back in that time… to do what it’s done,” Sublette remarked.
The Philippine Mars will now be reassembled at the museum, joining approximately 400 other aircraft in its impressive collection. While a specific display date is yet to be announced, visitors can already catch glimpses of the aircraft and its components at the southwest corner of the museum.
Brad Elliott, advertising manager for the Arizona Aerospace Foundation, emphasized the significance of acquiring such a rare and iconic piece of history. It allows the museum to continue sharing its story with future generations.
The journey of the Philippine Mars from the skies to the museum is a testament to the enduring legacy of aviation innovation. It stands as a reminder of the dedication, ingenuity, and passion that have shaped the history of flight.
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