I was an engine mechanic with the Black Knights, 57th Fighter-Interceptor Sq. at Keflavic, Iceland - 1956-57. The F-89D was definitely an all-weather aircraft.
I was stationed at Otis AFB from May 1954 to Sept.1959 my Squadron was the 58th FIS.The first aircraft I can remember working on was the F89D.My job was as an aircraft mechanic and I can truthfully say it was a delight to work the F89s.The aircraft performed well and to my knowledge it was easy to keep in commission. I was fortunate to work the F89H & F89Js. I was the Crew Chief on A /C 474 which I watched perform at a airshow at Otis. I can still see it approaching for a speed run. Lifting the nose to the heavens going straight up and flipping over into numerous barrel rolls. The best part was that when it returned to the base everything was operating perfectly. What an Aircraft.I'm still proud of it. Sincerely Ronald E.Hutchison
I flew the F-89A, B, C, and D. It was a forgiving aircraft with deceleron speed control unmatched. The pilot could visually check main gear down. It was stable in gunnery passes. And it survived Arctic climates.
