MUSAM Vigna di Valle Adds Historic IMAM Ro.41 Biplane to Its Collection

MUSAM Vigna di Valle Adds Historic IMAM Ro.41 Biplane to Its Collection

The Museo Storico dell’Aeronautica Militare (MUSAM) in Vigna di Valle has officially added the IMAM Ro.41 trainer biplane to its permanent collection following a thirty-year restoration. The aircraft was presented at an official ceremony held on April 16, 2026, at Hangar Badoni, attended by military and civilian authorities and the volunteers who took part in the restoration.

• Presentation ceremony: institutional addresses, historical reenactments and audio-visual material produced by the museum’s historical center (CSSAM).
• Historical-scientific forum: discussions on pilot training “yesterday, today and tomorrow” featuring military, academic and conservation experts.
• Restoration: carried out by the MUSAM Maintenance and Restoration Section together with volunteers from the GAVS (Group of Friends of Historic Aircraft).

The aircraft

Designed by engineer Giuseppe Galasso for the Romeo Aeronautical Industries (IAR/IMAM), the Ro.41 was originally conceived as a light interceptor but found its niche as a trainer. The prototype first flew in 1934; between 1935 and 1949 some 743 units were built, with service continuing into the early 1950s. The example now on display is the outcome of a complex reconstruction using original components, parts from private collections and newly manufactured elements.

Restoration and heritage

The restoration addressed the lack of original drawings and required integrating parts sourced from the Politecnico di Napoli, private collections and the museum’s own holdings. The programme combined specialist workshop skills with the commitment of retired personnel and GAVS volunteers.

The IMAM Ro.41 is now exhibited as part of MUSAM’s permanent collection in Vigna di Valle. For visitor information, opening times and related events, please refer to the museum’s official channels.