The SUN ’n FUN Aerospace Expo will once again host hundreds of historic aircraft during its week-long gathering in Lakeland, Florida, from April 14–19, 2026. Among the highlights on display, both in the air and on the ground, will be a rare example of one of the most iconic four-engine transports of the 20th century—the Lockheed VC-121A “MacArthur Bataan.” Built in 1948, the aircraft is one of only two airworthy examples of its type remaining in the world and is set to return to SUN ’n FUN following its debut appearance at the event in 2024.
The VC-121A is better known in its civilian form as the Lockheed Constellation, or simply the “Connie.” Renowned for its elegant lines, distinctive triple-tail configuration, and widespread airline service, the Constellation remains one of the most recognizable aircraft ever produced. “MacArthur Bataan” represents a particularly significant example, with a long and varied career spanning military and NASA service. The aircraft participated in transatlantic relief missions during the Berlin Airlift in 1949 and later served during the Korean War as the personal transport and flying command post of General Douglas MacArthur, who named the aircraft in honor of those who perished during the Bataan Death March in 1942. In subsequent years, it carried numerous senior military leaders and dignitaries, including President Dwight D. Eisenhower.
Retired to storage in 1966, the aircraft was later acquired by NASA and repurposed as a flying testbed, supporting the calibration of ground tracking stations during the Apollo program. After decades of outdoor display and a period of uncertainty that nearly led to its loss, the aircraft was ultimately rescued and returned to airworthy condition through an extensive restoration undertaken by the Air Legends Foundation of San Antonio, Texas, which now operates the aircraft. In addition to the Constellation, the Air Legends Foundation is also expected to bring its Grumman G-73 Mallard to Lakeland. Together, these aircraft will offer visitors a rare opportunity to witness two classic designs from the golden age of aviation, from the Constellation’s unmistakable triple-tail silhouette to the Mallard’s versatile amphibious configuration, both presented in flying condition at one of the nation’s premier aviation gatherings.
SUN ‘n FUN Fly-In, Inc., the nonprofit organization that operates the event, uses proceeds from the Aerospace Expo to support the Aerospace Center for Excellence (ACE). Through its educational programs, learning centers, scholarships, and summer camps, ACE engages more than 50,000 students each year while promoting careers in aviation and aerospace. ACE also operates the Florida Air Museum—Florida’s official aviation museum—and the Lakeland Aero Club, the largest high school flying club in the United States and a leading producer of licensed teenage private pilots. With its newly announced airshow schedule and a full slate of aviation activities, SUN ‘n FUN 2026 once again promises to deliver a week-long celebration of flight that brings together pilots, enthusiasts, and industry professionals from around the world. For more information, visit www.flysnf.org.
