Starting an engine in flight. This was taken during a practice session for a local small air show at Buchanan Field (CCR). Merle Larson, a WWII B-24 pilot, has climbed out of the front seat to hand prop the dead engine. The plane is being flown by Gladys Davis (a CFI) from the back seat. Merle was always trying new things as an inventor and skilled craftsman. He designed and built three planes of unusual design as well as other aviation and non aviation items. His large square-cut rudder was used on several Stearman crop dusters.

This photo is copyright © William T. Larkins (Bill Larkins), and may not be used or published in any way without permission.

It was added on 30 December 2017, and has since been viewed 9653 times.