| AirVenture 2024 Will Host Last Two Remaining B-29s |
The 71st edition of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, set to take place from July 22-28, 2024, at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, will feature a rare reunion of the world's only two flying Boeing B-29 Superfortresses, 'Doc' and 'FIFI'. This joint appearance, supporting the "Turning the Tide" salute to 1944 and the 80th anniversary of D-Day, marks only the fourth time in 50 years that these two iconic aircraft have been publicly displayed together.
Rick Larsen, EAA's vice president of communities and member programs, highlighted the significance of this event, stating, "Bringing these two iconic aircraft together is another of those 'Only at Oshkosh' moments." He emphasized that their presence will make the commemoration even more memorable.
During the event, each airplane will be featured on EAA's Boeing Plaza, with FIFI on display from July 22-24 and Doc taking center stage from July 25-28. Additionally, a formation flight is scheduled for the beginning of the July 24 night air show. When not on display, Doc will offer flight experiences based at Appleton International Airport, located approximately 20 miles north of Oshkosh.
FIFI, owned and operated by the Commemorative Air Force's B-29/B-24 Squadron in Dallas, Texas, was rescued from being used as a missile target and restored to flying condition. After an extensive four-year restoration, FIFI returned to the skies in 2010.
Doc, built in 1944, was part of a squadron known as Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at Griffiss Air Force Base in upstate New York. After being retired in 1956 and used as a target for Navy training missions, Doc was restored over 16 years by a dedicated group of volunteers. It made its first post-restoration flight in July 2016.
Both aircraft represent significant chapters in aviation history and their joint appearance at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024 is a testament to the dedication of those who have worked tirelessly to preserve and share these flying legends.
FMI: www.EAA.org
