(Image/OnAllCylinders) This AT-6 Texan, dubbed “Nella” is part of the CAF’s WASP Squadron, which highlights the role of the Women Airforce Service Pilots. (Image/OnAllCylinders – Alan Sakalas) A Willys MB is always a welcome sight. *** Other Military Planes & Vehicles at the Event A plane that needs no introduction, this particular Mustang “ Gunfighter” is a two-seat P-51D variant and one of the many aircraft operated by the Commemorative Air Force. Yet by the end of the war, it was rendered obsolete by the imminent arrival of the jet age. (Image/OnAllCylinders) The B-24 featured a unique high-mounted “Davis” wing which enhanced its range and speed. Though Diamond Lil was assembled at the Consolidated plant in California, many others were made by Ford under license in its famed Willow Run factory-where at its peak, Ford was able to produce one B-24 every hour. *** The Consolidated B-24 Liberator “Diamond Lil” The B-24 Liberator is the most produced heavy bomber and multi-engine aircraft of all time. (Image/OnAllCylinders) Think keeping a vintage hot rod or musclecar running is tough? How about maintaining four 18-cylinder twin-row, supercharged, air-cooled, radial engines. (Image/OnAllCylinders) While the crowds around the B-29 meant we couldn’t get many exterior shots, we were lucky enough to get a tour of the cockpit. Close to 4,000 were built, 22 are left, and only two remain airworthy. *** The Boeing B-29 Superfortress “FiFi” Introduced in 1944, the B-29 was one of the most technologically advanced aircraft of the era, with computer assisted remote control gun turrets and a pressurized fuselage. Check out the website, because it might be coming to an airstrip near you! We were lucky enough to see the B-24 Liberator “Diamond Lil” take off and land during the event. The event was part of the Commemorative Air Force Air Power History Tour, which will be flying around the United States through the fall. So when we learned that one of the only two airworthy Boeing B-29 Superfortresses AND one of the only two airworthy Consolidated B-24 Liberators were landing at a nearby airfield, we had to go check them out.Įven better, the signature snarl of a Merlin engine filled the air as a P-51 did occasional flyovers, and plenty of other vintage military aircraft and vehicles stopped by as well, making it an incredible historical experience. (Image/OnAllCylinders)Ĭincinnati, OH – Every once in a while, we’ll take a break from hot rods, race cars, and off-roaders to focus on some other piston-powered pursuits. Fifi is one of two B-29s that can still fly.
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