B-17 Vintage Bomber of WWII is available for walk through tours and flights
"The national tour EAA undertakes each year has become
the nation's most popular way to learn about this unique aircraft in an
up-close way," said EAA President Tom Poberezny. "EAA is dedicated to
preserving the spirit of aviation through these B-17 tours.
Each year,
we also take great pride in saluting all our nation's veterans as the
airplane makes its way throughout our country."
The tour's second leg takes place in the fall
following a full week at "home" during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh (July
28-August 3). At each stop, flight "missions" are available in the
airplane, with special pre-book rates for EAA members and non-members.
Group ground-tour rates are available for schools or other large groups,
and the airplane's crew is available at each location to answer
questions. For more information regarding flight missions and ground
tours, visit www.b17.org, or contact EAA's B-17 Tour Office at 800-359-6217.
EAA has conducted national B-17 tours since 1994,
providing thousands of aviation enthusiasts once-in-a-lifetime
opportunities to experience the Flying Fortress. For some, seeing the
airplane up close is an emotional reunion from years ago when they
served their country aboard a Flying Fortress.
Aluminum Overcast was built in 1945, but was
delivered to the Army Air Corps too late to see active service in World
War II. It was purchased as war surplus for $750 by a private
individual, and served in mapping and spraying operations in many
countries until a preservation group purchased it in 1978. The B-17 was
donated to the EAA Aviation Foundation in 1981 with the provision that
the aircraft be maintained in airworthy condition.
After being displayed at the EAA AirVenture Museum
in Oshkosh, Wis., for a decade, the airplane made its national tour
debut in the spring of 1994. Members of the EAA Warbirds of America who
are experienced in World War II airplane operations fly the airplane,
which is painted in the colors of the 398th Bomb Group.
EAA180 is pleased to present the B-17. Visit www.b17.org/tour/ for tour dates and locations.