I've only seen the MST3K version, so maybe I missed some dialogue explaining this. If the pilot was a veteran of both Korea and Vietnam, why did they put him in a Korean-era F-86 instead of something more modern like an F-4 or F-100? I know, probably because the F-86 was available for the movie; but I wondered if they lampshaded that in the script. Not that I'm complaining, the Sabre is a lovely sight!
shareI'm guessing it was to do with availability. I worked for the company that owned that F-86. (Flight Systems in Mojave, Ca.). They painted the airplane black with the dragon on the tail and put strobe lights in for the guns. Afterwards, they power washed the paint right off. When it was ready, they flew it and strafed us with the strobe lights.
shareAlso, technically, the F-86 is an easier aircraft to restore and fly than the F-4 or other super sonic jets.
shareIn addition to the above, there are severe restrictions on private individuals owning functional supersonic military aircraft. A number of years back a private owner was able to piece together an F-104 Star Fighter by gathering parts from around the globe. Many countries flew the F-104 and did so well after it left service with the USAF. So viable parts could be had. It supposedly was airworthy but he ran into a heap of trouble with the FAA. I don't know if it ever flew (legally).
Bottom line a flying F-86 Sabre, being "sub"-sonic, would be something available that the movie producer could contract and film.
Maybe it's what the pilot knew how to fly?
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