Albany, New York (June 1, 2004) - - - "Sentimental Journey," a B-17 Flying Fortress known for their daylight bombing raids over Europe during World War II, will be on display and open for tours at Albany International Airport June 4, 5, 6 and 7. The four-engine bomber is scheduled to arrive at approximately 12:00 noon on Friday, June 4.
The B-17 was nicknamed the Flying Fortress for its ability to sustain considerable damage while on its bombing missions and still be able to bring its crew back home. The aircraft has a wingspan of 103 feet and stands 19 feet tall. The B-17 can fly at more than 36,000 feet with a top speed of 302 miles per hour. It carried a crew of 10 and an 8,000 pound bomb load.
"Sentimental Journey," came off the assembly line in late 1944 and served in the Pacific. Following the war, the plane was reconfigured to help battle forest fires throughout the country. It was retired from service in 1959 and later donated to the Arizona Wing of the Commemorative Air Force (formerly Confederate Air Force). Volunteers disassembled the aircraft and painstakingly restored it to original World War II configuration.
"Sentimental Journey," with its nose painted with a portrait of movie star Betty Grable, has appeared in movies and on television including All The Fine Young Men, 1941, Wings and the History Channel.
The Commemorative Air Force is a worldwide, all-volunteer and not-for-profit organization that is dedicated to preserving and flying the great warplanes that dominated the skies during World War II. Out of the 12,731 B-17s built during World War II, there are only about 13 left in flyable condition and approximately eight are flying in the United States.
The B-17 will be on display next to the ASIG (formerly Signature Flight Support Terminal), located on the Airport's Southern Access Road. Free parking will be available to those who wish to tour the plane.
Spectators will be able to stroll around the plane and take photographs. In addition, individuals will be able to tour the inside of the aircraft for a $5 donation. The B-17 will be open for tours at the following times: Friday, June 4, 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Saturday June 5, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Sunday June 6, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Monday, June 7, 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.
The Arizona Wing of the Commemorative Air Force will offer unforgettable rides to the public aboard Sentimental Journey. The cost will be $395, with a five-person minimum. To reserve a flight, please contact the Commemorative Air Force at 602 538-5675.
Spectators may also visit the Commemorative Air Force PX for special aircraft souvenirs and memorabilia.
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