Aviation history will take center stage this weekend as the Planes of Fame Air Museum hosts a special “Hangar Talk and Flight” program featuring two of the most iconic aircraft of World War II: the North American P-51D Mustang and the Boeing B-17G Flying Fortress Sentimental Journey. The museum will open its doors at 9:00 a.m., with the program beginning at 10:30 a.m. At 12:15 p.m., museum staff member Jim Llano will lead a presentation on the P-51 Mustang, detailing the fighter’s service during both World War II and the Korean War.
Pilot Rob Patterson will then start the Mustang’s Packard-built Merlin engine in front of the audience before taking off for a 20-minute flight demonstration. Upon landing, Patterson and Llano will hold a Q&A session for attendees. Adding to the day’s attractions, the Commemorative Air Force’s Arizona Wing will bring their B-17G Sentimental Journey. Immediately following the Mustang’s departure, the four-engine bomber will be started and taxied in front of the crowd, providing visitors with a close-up experience of one of the last airworthy Flying Fortresses.
Organizers expect the event to draw significant interest from aviation enthusiasts, with the combination of live flight demonstrations, expert commentary, and rare aircraft appearances offering a unique opportunity to experience living history. For more information, click HERE.
Born in Milan, Italy, Moreno moved to the U.S. in 1999 to pursue a career as a commercial pilot. His aviation passion began early, inspired by his uncle, an F-104 Starfighter Crew Chief, and his father, a military traffic controller. Childhood adventures included camping outside military bases and watching planes at Aeroporto Linate. In 1999, he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, to obtain his commercial pilot license, a move that became permanent. With 24 years in the U.S., he now flies full-time for a Part 91 business aviation company in Atlanta. He is actively involved with the Commemorative Air Force, the D-Day Squadron, and other aviation organizations. He enjoys life with his supportive wife and three wonderful children.
I got to take a flight on sentimental journey last year. Experience of a lifetime. If you get a chance to see her in person, don’t miss out.