The Lockheed T-33 Shooting Star, commonly known as the T-bird, was the two-seat trainer version of the single-place F-80 fighter. Originally designed the TF-80C, the T-33 made its first flight in March 1948. Almost 5,700 were built before production ended in August 1959. The T-33 served with the air forces of more than 20 different countries for almost 40 years. Many are still flown today.

The F-80 and T-33 were used at Chanute Technical Training Center in the jet engine and fuel specialist courses.

This T-33A-1-LO, S/N 52-9797, is on loan to Octave Chanute Aerospace Museum from the National Museum of the United States Airforce.

T-33A Restoration Project

Museum volunteers have recently begun a complete restoration of this aircraft, with the aim of returning it to "like-new" condition. The canopy has been removed and polished, and the ejection seats have been removed so the rotted floorboards can be replaced.

If you would like to volunteer to help on this project, please call the museum at (217) 893-1613 or email the curator.