The American Airpower Museum (AAM) is pleased to announce the launch of its new WWII Douglas C-47 Scenic Flight Experience, offering the public a rare opportunity to fly aboard a historic World War II aircraft. Following the recent visit of the B-29 Doc during Memorial Day Weekend, aviation enthusiasts now have another chance to take to the skies—this time aboard AAM’s own Douglas C-47 Skytrain, affectionately named Second Chance.
Unlike the experience of boarding a modern jetliner and cruising at 35,000 feet, this flight offers a unique journey back in time. Passengers will fly just 1,000 feet above Long Island’s coastline at approximately 150 mph, enjoying panoramic views of iconic shorelines, towns, and landscapes from the C-47’s cabin windows. The experience promises an unforgettable perspective of Long Island’s North and South Shores. AAM’s C-47 Skytrain is an authentic WWII-era transport aircraft of the type used to deploy U.S. Airborne paratroopers during the D-Day invasion of June 1944. Passengers will witness the roar of the aircraft’s powerful radial engines as it departs from Republic Airport, following scenic routes over the Island—determined by wind and weather conditions on the day of the flight.
Flight Schedule and Booking Information
Each Scenic Flight Experience lasts approximately 45 minutes, including 20 minutes in the air. Flights will be offered twice daily—at 11:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.—on the following Saturdays: June 21, July 5, July 19, August 16, and August 30. Tickets are $195 per person. Passengers must be at least 12 years of age; those aged 12–17 must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian. Reservations can be made online at www.americanairpowermuseum.org by clicking on “C-47 Scenic Flight Experience.” For more information, call (516) 531-3950 or (631) 454-2039, or visit the museum’s gift shop at Hangar 3, 1230 New Highway, Farmingdale, NY, Wednesday through Sunday, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Important Details for Passengers
Passengers should arrive at least 45 minutes prior to departure and are encouraged to bring cameras or smartphones to capture the experience. Due to the high volume of engine noise, hearing protection such as earplugs is recommended. Each ticket holder may bring one accompanying guest at a discounted rate of $10 per person to observe the flight and enjoy museum exhibits. Additional guests will be subject to standard admission rates.
About the Aircraft
The Douglas C-47 Skytrain, a military variant of the DC-3 airliner, served the Allies extensively during World War II. AAM’s aircraft was built in 1944 and delivered to the U.S. Army Air Forces before being transferred to the Royal Air Force in 1945. She participated in the Berlin Airlift and went on to serve with the Belgian, French, and Israeli air forces—flying missions in Vietnam, North Africa, and the Middle East. Acquired by AAM in 2000, Second Chance remains in stock military configuration and is one of the few such aircraft still flying today, with just over 18,000 total flight hours. The C-47 is a regular participant in the museum’s D-Day Living History events and regional air shows, appearing in her original WWII markings with the “D8” squadron code.
Supporting History Through Flight
These Scenic Flights support the American Airpower Museum’s mission to honor veterans and preserve military aviation history. Proceeds help maintain AAM’s historic aircraft fleet and educational programs. For more information or to book a flight, visit www.americanairpowermuseum.org. Help Keep ‘Em Flying!
