The B-17 Flying Fortress is a legendary American bomber aircraft that played a crucial role in World War II. Built by Boeing, the B-17 was designed for long-range strategic bombing missions and was known for its durability, firepower, and ability to withstand heavy damage.
Today, the B-17 is primarily flown as a historical aircraft, with many examples preserved in museums and flying at air shows and events around the world. However, due to the age of the aircraft and the challenges of maintaining and operating vintage military aircraft, the number of flyable B-17s has dwindled over the years.
As of 2021, there are believed to be fewer than ten flyable B-17s remaining in the world. Some of these aircraft are owned and operated by museums or historical organizations, while others are owned privately and flown for pleasure or at air shows.
One of the most well-known flyable B-17s is the “Aluminum Overcast,” owned and operated by the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. This aircraft, which was built in 1945 and saw no combat during World War II, has been meticulously restored and is flown regularly as a tribute to the brave men and women who flew and maintained the B-17 during the war.
Other flyable B-17s include the “Madras Maiden,” owned by the Liberty Foundation, and the “Texas Raiders,” owned by the Commemorative Air Force. Both of these aircraft are flown regularly at air shows and events throughout the United States, giving aviation enthusiasts a chance to see the B-17 in action and experience a piece of history.
Maintaining and operating a vintage aircraft like the B-17 is no small feat. These aircraft require a significant amount of time, effort, and resources to keep them in airworthy condition. This includes regular maintenance and inspections, sourcing and installing hard-to-find parts, and training pilots and crew members to operate the aircraft safely and effectively.
Despite these challenges, the owners and operators of flyable B-17s are committed to preserving this important piece of aviation history and keeping the memory of the brave men and women who flew and maintained these aircraft alive for future generations.
In conclusion, there are believed to be fewer than ten flyable B-17s remaining in the world as of 2021. These aircraft are owned and operated by museums, historical organizations, and private individuals who are committed to preserving this important piece of aviation history. While maintaining and operating a vintage aircraft like the B-17 is no easy task, those who fly these aircraft are dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who flew and maintained them during World War II and keeping their memory alive for future generations.