What would become perhaps the most famous WACO in the world, WACO Model ATO "Taperwing" (S/N A118) was rolled out of the WACO Aircraft factory on July 8, 1929. In August of 1934, the aircraft was purchased by famous stunt pilot and skywriter, Col. Joseph C. Mackey. Mackey upgraded the aircraft to a Model CTO by installing a Wright Whirlwind R-975 J6-9 engine. In 1936, the taperwing was completely reworked with streamlined fairing by Hill Aircraft of Cincinnati. This is the only WACO ever metallized; the fuselage fabric skins were replaced with rounded aluminum skins.

Joe Mackey established Mackey Flying Service of Findlay, Ohio and his team was contracted by the Ohio Oil Company (later Marathon Oil) to perform air shows, skywriting, and sign flying as the "Linco Flying Aces." Asked to represent the U.S. at the 1936 International Air Games in Paris, Mackey's incredible performance earned him the Grand Prize Trophy, $10,000 and a hero's regard across the globe. Mackey continued to use this special WACO to earn many other awards for his aerobatic excellence including the coveted Freddie Lund Trophy.

This famous WACO is currently house in the WACO hangar at WACO Field in Troy, Ohio

BFGoodrich is one of the world's largest aerospace companies. Providing commercial, regional, business and military customers with a wide and comprehensive range of aerospace systems and services. The company acquired Col. Mackey's aircraft in 1993 and coordinated complete restoration in an effort to preserve its legacy.

The BFGoodrich Mackey WACO Taperwing returned home to the skies of Troy, Ohio on September 21, 1996. The BFGoodrich Aerospace Aircraft Wheel & Brake Divisions reside in the facility once operated by WACO.

For further information contact:
BFGoodrich Aerospace
Aircraft Wheels & Brakes
Call: (937) 339-3811