The first XA2D-1 Skyshark, BuNo 122988, first flew belatedly on 26 May 1950, but crashed on 19 December 1950 due to engine problems when it had made barely 20 hours in 15 flights. The second aircraft, 122989, did not fly until 3 April 1952. Continuing troubles with the Allison T40 turboprop killed the Skyshark. With the war in Korea raging, ten A2D-1 production aircraft were ordered and built, but four of these never even flew. Project terminated in September 1954 but several Skysharks, including this second prototype, were flown by Allison in Indianapolis during 1955. Photo from: US Navy

The last Douglas Skyshark (of 12 built) was saved from fire practice destruction by the Planes of Fame Museum. Displayed for years with a pointed nose replacing missing engines and props, it was sold to long time museum volunteer John Muszala in 1976. Mr. Muszala's warbird restoration company "Pacific Fighters" slowly replaced missing panels and a surprise finding of A2D propellers at a junkyard saw the aircraft take shape at Chino, Ca and Idaho Falls, ID when the company re-located in 1996. The restored aircraft is on display at the San Diego Air and Space Museum Annex at Gillespie Field.

Of 12 Skysharks built, this is the only surviving aircraft.

This is at the store and restoration site for the museum

Photographed as work started on its restoration for the San Diego Air and Space Museum.

The sole surviving Skyshark displayed at Planes of Fame Museum's original location. XT-40 turboprop-powered derivative of the Skyraider. Now displayed at Idaho Falls ID.