Wevelgem, Belgium – In a thrilling development for aviation enthusiasts, the Bronco Demo Team, based in Wevelgem, Belgium, has announced the revival of their second North American OV-10 Bronco aircraft. After spending years in deep storage, the aircraft, known by its tail number G-BZGL, is gradually being brought back to life. This marks a significant milestone for the team, as they plan to showcase two ship Bronco displays in the near future.

The Bronco Demo Team, renowned for their captivating aerial performances, shared this exciting news on their official Facebook page. The resurrection of G-BZGL began with a series of successful engine tests conducted on October 22, 2024, at Kortrijk-Wevelgem Airport. These tests signal the start of a new chapter for the aircraft, which has not taken to the skies for several years.

The team’s ultimate ambition is to perform with both Broncos in tandem, a spectacle that promises to captivate audiences worldwide. Both aircraft in the team’s possession have storied histories as former assets of the Luftwaffe, the German Air Force. The first Bronco, G-ONAA, proudly displays its original Luftwaffe colours and serial number 99+18. Meanwhile, G-BZGL, although still adorned in its basic Luftwaffe livery, awaits a new identity as its future paint scheme remains under wraps.

The Bronco Demo Team’s flagship display aircraft, OV-10B “99+18” G-ONAA, has a rich legacy. It served as a target tug for West Germany’s Luftwaffe for many years before joining the team in 2006. Prior to its acquisition, it had been on static display at the International Aviation Museum - Manfred Pflumm since 1991. The aircraft underwent extensive restoration at the museum’s facility in Schwenningen-am-Neckar, nestled in the scenic Black Forest. It successfully completed its maiden post-restoration flight on May 26, 2012, and was subsequently ferried to the team’s home base in Wevelgem. By 2014, it was dazzling spectators on the airshow circuit.

G-BZGL, the second Bronco in the team’s fleet, holds its own unique story. It was one of the initial pair of Broncos acquired by the team in 1999 from the Luftwaffe Technical School in Fassberg. After arriving in Duxford, England, on September 13, 2001, with the tail number G-BZGL, it underwent a comprehensive overhaul of all major systems. The aircraft was then transported to Wevelgem in November 2015, where it entered a prolonged period of deep storage. Now, it is poised to take to the skies once more, joining its sibling in awe-inspiring displays.

The Bronco Demo Team’s journey has not been without its challenges. They once owned a third Bronco, OV-10B “99+32” G-BZGK, which was also part of the original pair from the Luftwaffe Technical School. This aircraft made its maiden post-restoration flight on July 11, 2007, at Duxford and garnered attention at numerous airshows across Europe. Tragically, it was lost in an accident at Kemble Airport on July 10, 2012.

As the Bronco Demo Team prepares to showcase the synchronized flight of G-ONAA and G-BZGL, aviation aficionados eagerly anticipate witnessing the majestic dance of these historic aircraft. The team’s dedication to preserving and celebrating the legacy of the OV-10 Bronco is a testament to their passion for aviation history and their commitment to delivering breathtaking aerial performances.