It's a rare opportunity for the public to get a glimpse of such aircraft as the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress “Nine O Nine” Heavy Bomber, Consolidated B-24 Liberator “Witchcraft” Heavy Bomber, B-25 Mitchell “Tondelayo” mid-bomber and P-51C Mustang fighter. It is part of a 110-city nationwide tour meant to honor World War II veterans.
The planes touched down at noon Thursday and will be available to visit and explore through 5 p.m. Sunday on the main ramp at the airport. Hours for display and ground tours are 9 a.m. through 5 p.m. Oct. 2-4.
Cost is $12 for adults and $6 for children under 12. World War II veterans can visit at no charge, and special group rates are available.
Also, 30-minute flight experiences are available, typically done before and after tour times.
Flights on either the B-17 or B-24 are $450 per person. For a flight on the rare fighter P-51C, the cost is $2,200 for a half-hour and $3,200 for a full hour. For reservations and information on flights, call (800)- 568-8924.
This is a rare glimpse at history since the B-17 is one of only eight in flying condition in the United States, while the B-24J and Full Dual Control P-51C Mustang are the sole remaining examples in the world.
The Collings Foundation is a non-profit educational foundation devoted to organizing “living history” events that allows people to learn more about their heritage and history through direct participation. The nationwide Wings of Freedom tour has been visiting an average of 110 cities each year for 26 years.
At each location, organizers invite local veterans to share their experiences with the public. For more, visit the website.
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