B-17G and B-24J Here on Wings of Freedom Tour

Posted:
By: Jeff Aiken
On: 06/11/2003

I called the Aurora, Oregon Airport for the name of the Fortress, but they were not able to tell me. They did give me the website of the nonprofit owner which is www.collingsfoundation.org

The are offering 30-minute flights for $400. They will be departing today, on their way to Yakima, Washington. I was there to see them last year and the year before. The attracted quite a large crowd of seniors and were flying around for most of the days here. The name of the tour in Wings of Freedom Tour. Someday, I hope to ride in one.

Re: B-17G and B-24J Here on Wings of Freedom Tour

Posted:
By: Scott McElvain
On: 06/12/2003

I had the money and didn't know when I'd have another chance, so I flew in Nine-O-Nine back in 1996. What a thrill! Stan Stokes, aviation artist, has a print of it in a wartime setting. The present Nine-O-Nine is not the original. I think that's right.

Re: B-17G and B-24J Here on Wings of Freedom Tour

Posted:
By: Donald Byers
On: 06/12/2003

Missed my chance in Lubbock a couple of years ago because I didn't even know that a B-17 was in town. Not shure which one it was but saw it flying as I was coming home from work. Too late to go to the airport. Trips were $350.00 then inflation now I guess.

Don Byers

Re: B-17G and B-24J Here on Wings of Freedom Tour

Posted:
By: Jack Reid
On: 06/25/2003

the Collings Foundation is headquarted in Stow, MA - about a half hour to forty five minute ride from Braintree - although I'm sure the B-17 and B-24 will be on tour, they have various other aircraft at Stow - sounds like a possibility for a side trip during the 2004 reunion

Re: B-17G and B-24J Here on Wings of Freedom Tour

Posted:
By: Win Bryson
On: 07/29/2003

1. The Collings Foundation's B-17G "Nine-O-Nine" is not the original - but it's worn those "colors" as long as I've followed it;

2. the Arizona Wing of the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) also tours a B-17G named "Sentimental Journey", in 351BG "colors", but is also not the original a/c -  and also can arrange "rides" while on tour.

3. There may be other touring B-17Gs, but these two seem to tour regularly each year.  And the only way I've been able know of their arrival in the area in advance - of hearing those engines - is by checking their websites for "schedules" - which are subject to changes for maintenance, weather, etc.

4. BUT - I agree, taking a "hop" in one (don't forget your video camera) is "priceless"...for everything else, there's Mastercard!