Attendees can enjoy cockpit tours, airplane rides,
and educational activities
Dallas, Texas -- More than a dozen iconic bombers, fighters, troop transporters, flight trainers, and other aircraft will gather for a rare exhibition of the aircraft that led the U.S. and its allies to victory in World War II.
Warbird Weekend, which runs May 4-5 at the Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center (NAEC) in Dallas, Texas, offers a unique chance to see and experience the fleet of WWII bomber types before several make their historic transatlantic return flight to Normandy to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day in June.
Warbird Weekend attendees can take a trip back in time through cockpit tours and rides on these vintage aircraft, as well as experience living history displays, rides on military vehicles, and a vintage car show. Other family-friendly activities include an Aviation Discovery Zone with hands-on activities for kids including flight simulators, riveting panels, model airplanes, and more.
A limited number of rides are available on select aircraft. Tickets may be purchased here, and include family packs as well as discounts for kids, seniors, and active military and veterans.
“Warbird Weekend is a unique opportunity for people to experience history in a very up-close and hands-on way. It’s also that rare event that brings together multiple generations – from grandparents to young children, there’s something for everyone,” said Hank Coates, CEO, Commemorative Air Force. “Whether you’re a history or aviation buff, or someone who wants to honor the sacrifices of our World War II veterans, Warbird Weekend is the perfect way to spend the day.”
Vintage Warbirds Will Include
C-47 Skytrain That’s All, Brother: This aircraft led the main airborne invasion of Normandy on D-Day in 1944 and will return to France for the 80th anniversary of that historic operation in June. The famed transport plane led more than 800 C-47s that dropped over 13,000 paratroopers into battle, changing the course of history.
C-47 Ready 4 Duty: This aircraft was extensively used by the U.S. Navy to transport troops. In June, it will return to Normandy for the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
B-17 Flying Fortress Sentimental Journey: This iconic bomber type was recently highlighted in the popular TV series “Masters of the Air.”
B-29 Superfortress FIFI: The world’s most famous flying B-29 Superfortress, this long-range bomber is one of only two such warbirds still flying.
P-51 Mustang Gunfighter: One of the world’s most famous P-51 Mustangs and one of only about 150 airworthy examples remaining worldwide, this warbird saw duty with the legendary ‘Mighty Eighth’ Air Force.
B-24 Liberator Diamond Lil: This Liberator was the 25th of 18,482 such planes built to support Allied efforts during WWII. It was used to train Royal Air Force (RAF) pilots and to haul personnel and equipment.
B-25 Mitchell Maid in the Shade: This low-altitude bomber, one of only 34 such warbirds still flying, was used in America’s first large-scale bombing offensive in the Philippines, sinking eight ships.
T-6 Nella: This aircraft was flown by the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) in training classes and served as the final check ride airplane for some WASP to receive their silver pilot wings.
PT-19: This historic aircraft was originally used to train Tuskegee Airmen during World War II.
Additional aircraft include the C-45 Bucket of Bolts, T-33, L-2, and L-26B Ike’s Bird, which has the distinction of being the smallest aircraft ever to carry the “Air Force One” call sign.
About the Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center
The Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center (NAEC) is the flagship of the American Airpower Heritage Museum (AAHM), an affiliate of the Commemorative Air Force (CAF). Located at Dallas Executive Airport, the NAEC provides hands-on learning opportunities and experiences for all ages. The 47,000-square-foot facility is dedicated to education with the mission to Honor the Past, Empower the Future. The NAEC was named in honor of World War II veteran and philanthropist Mr. Henry B. Tippie.
About the Commemorative Air Force
The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is the world’s largest flying military aircraft museum, with more than 175 vintage military aircraft and 11,000 members around the world. The mission of the CAF is to Educate, Inspire, and Honor through flight and living history experiences. For more than 65 years, the CAF has been dedicated to honoring American military aviation through flight, exhibition, education, and remembrance. The non-profit organization maintains airplanes in flying condition, allowing the public to experience first-hand the sights and sounds of America’s military aviation history. For more information, visit www.CommemorativeAirForce.org.
