From July 23 through 25, aviation enthusiasts will have the opportunity to explore and/or fly aboard extremely-rare vintage WWII aircraft during the 110-city “Wings of Freedom Tour” hosted by The Collings Foundation, a 501c3 non-profit educational foundation devoted to direct audience participation in “living history” events. The tour, which will touch base in Springfield at Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport, features the B-17 Flying Fortress “Nine O Nine,” the Consolidated B-24 Liberator “Witchcraft,” B-25 Mitchell “Tondelayo” bombers and a P-51 Mustang “Toulouse Nuts” fighter. Up-close viewing and tours of the aircraft cost $15 for adults and $5 for children ages 12 and under. Those who wish to further explore the planes are encouraged to call and make advance reservations for a 30-minute flight aboard their aircraft of choice. B-25 flight rates are $400, and B-17 and B-24 flight rates are $450. Additionally, P-51 flight training will be offered at the rate of $2,200 for a half hour and $3,200 for the full hour. Flight reservations can be made by calling 800-568-8924, and more information about the “Wings of Freedom Tour” is available online at http://collingsfoundation.org.
Wings of Freedom Tour
July 23-25, 12-5pm Mon, 9am-5pm Tue,
9am-12pm Wed
Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport
1200 Capital Airport Dr.
788-9200
Tours: $15 adults, $5 for children under 12
Flights: $400 or $450
Flight training: $2,200 or $3,200
This article appears in Jul 19-25, 2018.
