Historic WWII Aircraft on Display at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport
This week, aviation enthusiasts in Northeast Pennsylvania have a unique opportunity to step back in time as the Airpower History Tour lands at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport. Visitors will be able to explore an impressive collection of World War II aircraft, offering a rare glimpse into the era’s aviation history.
Starting today and continuing for five days, the Commemorative Air Force is showcasing these historic planes. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to preserving military aircraft and educating the public about America’s aviation heritage, as detailed on their website.
BJ Teichman, assistant executive director at the airport, noted that the organization chose to visit since Wilkes-Barre/Scranton had not previously hosted them. “I think they are interested in sharing the World War II vintage aircraft with folks in Northeast Pennsylvania,” Teichman explained.
The exhibit is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with admission priced at $20 for adults, $10 for children aged 11 to 17, and free for those 10 and under. Parking is available at The Venue / Culinary Creations lot located at 28 Concorde Dr., Dupont, costing $10 per vehicle. Shuttle service to the planes is included, and payments must be made via credit or debit card.
This display concludes a series of transportation-themed events that began with the arrival of a vintage Big Boy locomotive and continued with NASCAR race cars at Long Pond.
The aircraft on display include:
- A Boeing B-29 Superfortress named “FIFI.” This aircraft, one of only two B-29s still in flight, symbolizes the technological marvels of its time. The B-29 fleet, introduced during World War II, was utilized by the Air Force until 1960. “FIFI” has been touring since 1974.
- The North American P-51D Mustang, renowned for its speed, maneuverability, and extended range, making it a favorite among Allied pilots.
- A North American T-6 Texan, an advanced trainer known as the “Pilotmaker,” designed to prepare pilots for more complex aircraft.
- A Boeing PT-13 Stearman, which served as the primary trainer for military pilots during the war.
- The Beech RC-45J SNB, a military variant of the Model 18 Twin Beech, was employed for various training and reconnaissance missions.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, rides are available in some of these historic planes. Prices for the B-29 rides range from $725 to $1,995, while a flight in the P-51D Mustang ranges from $1,500 to $2,500. Reservations can be made through AirPowerTour.org. However, rides on the T-6 and PT-13 are already sold out.
Cockpit tours of the B-29 will be available daily starting at 9 a.m., except on weekends when they begin at noon.
Teichman emphasized the community aspect of the event, stating, “This is not a revenue-generating event for the airport. We’re providing the space to them as a courtesy.” The proceeds support the maintenance of the Commemorative Air Force’s fleet, which includes over 180 aircraft.
The presence of these aircraft will not disrupt commercial flight operations at the airport, according to Teichman.
