Five WWII-era aircraft fly into Albany

SCHENECTADY, N.Y. (NEWS10) – World War II aviation history is in Schenectady until Sunday. The public can purchase tickets to fly in all five WWII-era aircraft and take a tour of a B-29 bomber.

The Boeing B-29 Superfortress, nicknamed “Fifi”, was the largest and most technically advanced of its time. It first flew in 1945 and it arrived at the Schenectady County Airport Monday afternoon.

“Fifi” has never left the United States but this type of aircraft was used in many WWII missions. Most notably the Boeing B-29 Superfortress was used to drop the atomic bomb on Hiroshima.

“The reason why we preserve these aircraft is we want to bring history to life for people,” said Steve Schapiro, the Air Power History Tour leader.   

He volunteers with the Commemorative Air Force, a non-profit organization that’s been collecting aircraft to preserve for half a century. 

Schapiro said in addition to honoring veterans and educating the public, the organization has another goal.

“Inspire future generations to either have careers in aviation, whether it’s a maintenance, pilot, STEM engineers, maybe have a career in the military serving our country,” said Schapiro.

The plane is one of only two B-29’s still flying. The public can fly inside of B-29 during the Air Power History Tour, happening Wednesday through Sunday. 

For Steerman Pilot Brian Fenelon it was an emotional homecoming. 

“It’s a great opportunity to see friends and family. Family most of course and today is my mom’s 92nd birthday,” said Fenelon. He’s from Colonie and learned how to fly at Albany airport. 

“Meeting up with family and then taking people for rides just like what they’re doing right there,” said Fenelon, as he pointed to a fighter jet in the sky. 

A T-6 Texan, known as the “pilotmaker” has a special history. Col. Bob Markert explains why preserving its history is important.

“This is a very special aircraft because in 1943 August this airplane was used to start training the Air Force Women Service Pilots,” said Markert. “And that allowed the men then to go into combat. 38 of those women died they were considered civil service and they really didn’t get any special honors.”

Until 1971, Markert said, when the Air Force announced that women for the first time were able to fly military aircraft.

“In 1977 they were granted veteran status and then in 1980 they got the Congressional Gold Medal,” said Markert.

A C-45 aircraft will arrive here at the Schenectady County Airport on Wednesday. People can purchase flights on all five aircraft, as well as merchandise. To learn more about the Commemorative Air Force, please visit www.commemorativeairforce.org.