Corrosion? Actually, yes, the last time I saw the jet up close it wasn’t in good shape. That said, some of the last ones we had flying (not the Js, I hasten to add) were in pretty poor shape internally.
I even recall the primary display jet one summer suddenly presented with a massive crack in the lower wing-skin from leading to trailing edge wide enough to put your fist in. A short inspection revealed that the main spar (or equivalent – I’m not a rigger, call it a structural member or something) was broken right through. Further inspection showed that the broken ends were severely corroded so it had probably been like that for a very long time. Pale faced display pilot exits stage left.
So this one will do a trip. With jerry cans, obviously.
Courtney
P.S. Any of the following would be too obvious:Structural member - ooh er, Matron.
Lower wing skin - didn't know the F4 was a bi-plane.
Massive crack - something to do with the occupant of the front cockpit..