War-time pilots were told ditching a B-17, P-51, B-24 and other warbirds was a “last resort.”
B-17
You can own a piece of a B-17
PlaneTags, made by MotoArt, are limited-edition aviation mementos made from the skin of an aircraft. PlaneTags can be used as an ID tag, keychain, or displayed as a collectible.
Bittersweet end for the last B-17s in the Air Force
Radio-controlled B-17s were first used to bomb Germany, but after World War II, the Air Force found several other uses for the drones, known as QB-17, including taking radioactive samples, water ditching tests, and testing antiaircraft missiles.
Repair work continues on EAA’s B-17
Aluminum Overcast had been in Punta Gorda, Florida, since March 2021, when a routine pre-flight inspection revealed a crack emanating from the left sheer web, which is a secondary support structure for the wing. The only way to repair that is by removing the wing.
A B-17’s birthday bash
The B-17 Alliance Foundation held a week-long Birthday Bash for its B-17 “The Lacey Lady” in 2022.
What engines could the B-17 use?
The melodious Wright Cyclone motors of a stock B-17 confirm their ability to power this classic bomber. But the airframe proved capable of adapting other engines for other purposes.
Pictures of the Day: B-17 rides at SUN ‘n FUN
Joni M. Fisher took these photos at the SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo, which opened April 13, 2021, explaining: “Central Florida Aerospace Academy students Andrew Lumpuy (left) and Nick Poucher prepare for their ride on the Experimental Aircraft Association’s B-17 “Aluminum Overcast” on the day before SUN ‘n FUN opened. Both are members of the Lakeland Aero Club. Club President Mike Zidziunas bought Nick a ride for his birthday. Another club member donated a ride to Andrew.”
EAA’s B-17 kicks off national tour in March
The year-long tour begins in the Florida, then heads northward, with the B-17 expected to be “back home” for EAA AirVenture Oshkosh this summer.
New home for Thunderbird
The B-17 will stay in Texas, finding a new home at the Mid America Flight Museum.