Curtiss P-40E Kittyhawk

One of the most recognisable Allied fighters of the Second World War — the Curtiss P-40 Kittyhawk, registered in Australia as VH-AK4 and operated by Andrew Kennedy of Warbird Experience Australia.

The P-40 earned a reputation as one of the great workhorses of the war. While it may not have matched the speed of the latest Spitfires or Mustangs, it was incredibly rugged, dependable and capable of absorbing battle damage that would have brought many other fighters down. It served with distinction across North Africa, the Pacific, China and New Guinea, becoming synonymous with Allied air power in the early years of the conflict.

This particular aircraft has a remarkable story. Built in 1941, it was originally allocated a United States Army Air Forces serial before being transferred to the Royal Air Force and then delivered to the Royal New Zealand Air Force, where it served as NZ3009. After the war it was retired and eventually ended up in a scrapyard at Rukuhia, New Zealand. Like many wartime aircraft, it seemed destined to disappear forever.

Fortunately, enthusiasts recognised its historical significance. The aircraft was recovered, painstakingly restored over many years and returned to flying condition. In 2024 it joined the Australian register as VH-AK4, with Kennedy Aviation becoming its new owner. After extensive preparation in Australia, it flew again, ensuring this extraordinary survivor continues to grace our skies.

Today, VH-AK4 is presented in the markings of a Nationalist Chinese Air Force P-40E flown by ace Xu Hua Jiang, recognising the vital role the Kittyhawk played with the famous Flying Tigers and the Chinese Air Force during the war against Japan.

The Allison V-1710 V-12 engine powers the aircraft through its display, producing around 1,150 horsepower and giving the Kittyhawk its unmistakable deep exhaust note — a sound that echoes across more than eight decades of aviation history.

As you watch this magnificent fighter display its graceful turns and powerful passes, remember that aircraft like this were flown by young men — many barely out of their teens — in defence of freedom during one of history's darkest periods.

Adventure flights are available with Andrew and the P-40. Contact Warbird Experience Australia for the flight of a lifetime.