A piece of flying history will touch down in Dayton July 14-15 as part of the AirPower History Tour, presented by the Commemorative Air Force (CAF). The event will bring the B-29 Superfortress “FIFI”—one of only two airworthy B-29s in the world—alongside the RC-45J “Big Oily Beast” (“BOB”) to the grounds of the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force.
Both aircraft will be on public display throughout the event. Visitors will have the opportunity to view the aircraft up close, speak with crew members, learn more about their history and restoration as well as explore the interiors during event hours. These warbirds provide a rare opportunity to experience World War II-era aviation technology in action.
“FIFI” is a fully restored B-29 Superfortress, one of the most advanced bombers of World War II. The aircraft was designed for high-altitude precision bombing and played a pivotal role in the Pacific Theater. Featuring innovations such as pressurized cabins, remote-controlled defensive armament, and long-range capability, the B-29 was a major technological leap forward in U.S. military aviation.
Joining “FIFI” is the RC-45J “BOB.” This U.S. Navy variant of the Beechcraft Model 18 was used during World War II for transport, navigation training, and photo-reconnaissance. Built in 1943, the aircraft served at multiple military training facilities before being fully restored for display. Today, it provides a window into the essential support and training missions that made large-scale operations possible during the war.
Aircraft availability and event times are subject to change due to weather or maintenance. Visit the museum’s website at www.nationalmuseum.af.mil for the most up-to-date information.
Event Schedule
Monday, July 14
Approximately 12:00 p.m.
- Aircraft land on Wright Field (behind the museum)
- Visitors may view the landing from Memorial Park or the museum parking lot
1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- B-29 “FIFI” on static display with cockpit tours
- RC-45J “BOB” on static display with interior tours
Tuesday, July 15
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- B-29 “FIFI” on static display with cockpit tours
- RC-45J “BOB” on static display with interior tours
Approximately 5 p.m.
- Aircraft departures scheduled from Wright Field
The B-29/B-24 Squadron of the Commemorative Air Force brings together the aircraft, pilots, and crews from more than 70 CAF units across the country to create the AirPower Squadron—an ever-changing assortment of military aircraft touring together to bring the sights, sounds, and smells of World War II aviation history to audiences across the United States. (Federal Endorsement Not Implied)
In addition to the aircraft visiting the museum, another piece of World War II history will be on display nearby. “That’s All, Brother”—the C-47 that led the main airborne invasion of Normandy on D-Day, June 6, 1944—will be at Grimes Municipal Airport in Urbana, Ohio, July 15–17. Part of the Commemorative Air Force Central Texas Wing, the aircraft will be open for public viewing, with living history flights available for a fee and donations accepted to support its continued preservation. This special appearance coincides with the 80th anniversary of D-Day, offering visitors a chance to experience a second historically significant aircraft in the region. For more details, visit www.centraltexaswing.org. (Federal Endorsement Not Implied)