Rare World War II aircraft touched down at Drake Field in Fayetteville on Monday, marking the start of the AirPower History Tour. The centerpiece of the display is the B‑29 “FIFI,” one of only two B‑29 bombers still capable of flight worldwide. The heavy bomber, which played a pivotal role in the United States’ campaign over Japan, will be on public view at the Arkansas Air and Military Museum from Wednesday through Sunday.
What visitors can expect
Organizers from the Commemorative Air Force’s B‑29/B‑24 Squadron say the tour provides a unique, hands‑on experience. Attendees may photograph the aircraft, explore the cockpit, and purchase tickets for short rides aboard the historic planes. For families with members who served in the armed forces, the opportunity to stand beside a piece of living history can deepen personal connections to their own family stories.
Additional aircraft on display
Alongside the B‑29, the tour features a Stearman biplane, a World War II‑era trainer that helped prepare pilots for combat. Tour officials note that riding in the Stearman offers an especially immersive experience: passengers can feel the engine’s vibration, smell the exhaust, and sense the heat of the open‑cockpit flight.
Community response
John Newman, president of the board of directors for the Arkansas Air and Military Museum, highlighted the educational value of the event. “The tour gives people the opportunity to see these aircraft up close and to understand the sacrifices made by our service members,” Newman said. He added that the hands‑on elements, such as cockpit tours and flight rides, are designed to engage younger generations and preserve the legacy of those who served.
The AirPower History Tour will be open to the public from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, Wednesday through Sunday, at the museum’s facilities adjacent to Drake Field. Admission fees apply, with separate pricing for cockpit tours and flight experiences.
Historical significance
The B‑29 “FIFI” represents a rare surviving example of the aircraft that helped bring World War II to a close. Its continued airworthiness is a testament to the dedication of preservationists and volunteers who maintain these machines for future generations. By bringing such aircraft to Fayetteville, the tour not only honors military history but also supports local tourism and community pride.
Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the limited‑time opportunity to engage with living history, support the museum’s mission, and share the experience with friends and family.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
