CAF’s New AC-47 “Spooky” Gunship Comes to Life

Legendary Gunship

At the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Headquarters in Dallas, the deep rumble of radial engines echoed once more as pilot Greg Gutting brought the AC-47 “Spooky” gunship back to life. This Vietnam-era aircraft, officially designated the Douglas AC-47D, is now part of the CAF’s Gulf Coast Wing and will soon make its home in Conroe, Texas.

The video captures the moment “Puff the Magic Dragon” awakens from silence, white smoke billowing from her engines during startup.

Adapted from the C-47 Skytrain transport, engineers fitted the aircraft with side-firing Miniguns capable of saturating an area with defensive fire. This innovation allowed “Spooky” to circle a target and deliver continuous suppressive fire in support of troops on the ground.

The CAF’s restoration of the AC-47 ensures that this unique chapter of aviation history remains alive for future generations!