A fantastic array of historically significant and beautiful World War II-era airplanes will be on display at the Aviation Discovery Fest, many of which can be booked for private rides. For true history buffs, these airplane rides serve as bucket-list memories and an exceptional way to experience history. Funds generated from rides help maintain and preserve these flying pieces of history. In addition to rides, several airplanes attending will offer cockpit tours and hands-on experiences.

Featured aircraft at this year’s event and their classifications include:

B-29 Superfortress FIFI, Heavy Bomber *

P-51 Mustang Gunfighter, Fighter *

B-24 Liberator Diamond Lil, Heavy Bomber

L-26 AeroCommander Ike’s Bird, Liaison

T-34 Mentor, Trainer *

PT-13 Stearman, Trainer *

AT-6 Texan Nella, Trainer *

T-33 Shooting Star, Trainer

C-47 Skytrain That’s All, Brother, Transport *

PT-19 Pride of Corsicana, Trainer *

C-45 Expeditor Texas Dolls, Transport     

C-45 Expeditor Bucket of Bolts, Transport *

L-5 Sentinel, Liaison

P-40 Warhawk, Fighter

R4D Ready 4 Duty, Transport

AC-47 Spooky, Gunship (pictured)

C-45 Expeditor Yellow Belly, Transport *

B-25 Yellow Rose, Medium Bomber *

* Indicates paid rides available.

 

New to the festival this year is an AC47 “Spooky,” which is interesting because it was a frequently used gunship in the Korean War and Vietnam War eras. Also known as “Puff the Magic Dragon” for how it looked while unleashing bombs, the AC47 will be on static display at the festival, with veterans who flew the warbirds on hand to speak about the airplane.

 

But the Aviation Discovery Fest offers more than just seeing these historic warbirds. Families will enjoy one of the largest Living History experiences available in the country, with re-enactors and military vehicles. These expertly staffed interactive displays bring the wartime experience to life for guests of all ages. Kids will love the chance to ride in a half-track or other military transport vehicle.