The 2026 AirPower History Tour: A Journey Through Aviation Heritage
The Commemorative Air Force’s B-29/B-24 Squadron has announced the schedule for its 2026 AirPower History Tour, a traveling event that showcases some of the most remarkable flying aircraft from World War II. This tour aims to “Educate, Inspire, and Honor” by bringing these historic machines to communities across the United States. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to see, hear, and experience these iconic warbirds in ways that traditional museum displays cannot replicate.
A Unique Experience
Unlike typical airshow events, the AirPower History Tour allows visitors to get up close to the aircraft, explore their interiors, and even take flight in a variety of ride experiences. At each stop, crews provide educational briefings and share the stories behind the aircraft and the people who designed, built, maintained, and flew them during pivotal moments in American history.
The Star of the Show: FIFI
At the heart of the tour is the legendary Boeing B-29 Superfortress FIFI, one of only two B-29s still flying today. FIFI was rescued in the early 1970s by members of the Commemorative Air Force after being found abandoned at the U.S. Navy’s China Lake Proving Ground in California. After decades of service on the tour, FIFI underwent a major $3 million restoration beginning in 2006, which included the installation of newly built engines. The aircraft returned to the skies in 2010 and has continued to travel across North America, introducing new generations to one of the most sophisticated bombers of World War II.
Diamond Lil: The Only Flying B-24
Joining FIFI on many stops is Diamond Lil, the world’s only regularly flying Consolidated B-24 Liberator. The B-24 holds the distinction of being the most-produced multi-engine aircraft in history, with over 18,500 examples built during the war. Seeing this massive bomber in flight offers a rare glimpse into the scale and complexity of Allied strategic air power.
Additional Aircraft on Display
Other aircraft frequently appearing on the tour include the North American P-51 Mustang “Gunfighter,” the Boeing-Stearman PT-13 biplane trainer, and the North American T-6 Texan advanced trainer. These aircraft represent different stages of pilot training and combat aviation during the war years. The PT-13 Stearman, with its open cockpit, introduced countless pilots to flight, while the T-6 Texan prepared them for combat aircraft and later served in military training roles into the 1970s.
Ride Flights: A Deeper Connection
For those seeking a deeper experience, the tour offers ride flights aboard several aircraft. Each experience includes a detailed crew briefing explaining the aircraft’s history and operational role before passengers climb aboard. From engine start and taxi to takeoff and landing, participants experience the sights, sounds, and vibrations of historic warbirds exactly as wartime crews once did. Following the flight, passengers often have the opportunity to photograph the aircraft and speak directly with the volunteer crews who keep them flying.
Tour Stops Across the Nation
Each year, the AirPower History Tour travels thousands of miles, visiting airports, aviation museums, and major aviation gatherings across the country. The 2026 tour will begin in Dallas, Texas, during Warbird Weekend on April 11 before continuing to events and tour stops around the nation throughout the spring, summer, and fall.
2026 AirPower History Tour Schedule
- April 11 – Dallas, Texas
- April 14–19 – Lakeland, Florida (SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo)
- April 25–27 – Fort Worth, Texas
- April 29–May 3 – Montgomery, Alabama
- May 6–10 – Savannah, Georgia
- May 13–17 – Millington, Tennessee
- May 20–25 – Chattanooga, Tennessee
- May 27–31 – Johnstown, Pennsylvania
- June 3–7 – Reading, Pennsylvania (World War II Weekend)
- June 10–14 – Bridgeport, West Virginia
- June 17–21 – Akron/Canton, Ohio
- June 24–28 – Lexington, Kentucky
- July 1–5 – Dayton, Ohio
- July 20–26 – Oshkosh, Wisconsin (EAA AirVenture)
- September – Various western tour stops (TBA)
- October – Various southern tour stops (TBA)
Dates and aircraft appearances may vary depending on maintenance requirements, weather, and operational considerations. Operated almost entirely by volunteers, the B-29/B-24 Squadron represents one of the most ambitious flying museum efforts in the world. The organization brings together crews, pilots, mechanics, and historians from dozens of Commemorative Air Force units to preserve and operate some of the rarest aircraft still flying.
An Unforgettable Experience
For aviation enthusiasts, the AirPower History Tour provides an experience that goes far beyond simply seeing historic aircraft. It offers the opportunity to hear the roar of radial engines, smell the aviation fuel, and feel the vibration of machines that once helped shape the course of history.
For more information about tour stops, aircraft appearances, or ride flight reservations, visitors can consult the official AirPower History Tour website.
