The skies over Kansas City will soon echo with the sounds of living history as three legendary World War II aircraft arrive at New Century Air Center from July 31 through August 3. The B-29 Doc History Restored Tour returns to the region with a trio of iconic warbirds: the B-29 Superfortress “Doc,” the P-51 Mustang “Gunfighter,” and the C-47 “That’s All, Brother.” Hosted by the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Heart of America Wing, the event invites the public to get up close with these rare aircraft through ground tours, cockpit visits, and unforgettable ride flight experiences.
Each aircraft on this tour represents a unique chapter in World War II history. The B-29 “Doc” is one of only two remaining airworthy examples of the 1,644 Superfortresses built by Boeing in Wichita, Kansas. The P-51 “Gunfighter,” a D-model Mustang built in 1945, served with the famed Eighth Air Force in Europe. And the C-47 “That’s All, Brother” led more than 800 C-47s on June 6, 1944, flying at the head of more than 800 C-47s that dropped over 13,000 paratroopers into Normandy.
For local organizers and aviation groups, the tour is about more than aircraft. According to Steve Zimmerman, Wing Leader of the CAF Heart of America Wing, hosting these historic warbirds is a way to connect the community with the bravery, innovation, and sacrifice of the Greatest Generation. It’s a sentiment echoed by Josh Wells, executive director of the B-29 Doc program, who emphasized that the experience offers a hands-on connection to history and a powerful way to honor veterans and inspire future generations.
Visitors will have the opportunity to tour the B-29 and C-47 when they are not flying and can also purchase tickets for ride flights aboard all three aircraft. General admission, which includes access to the aircraft ramp and cockpit tours, is available at the gate for \$15 per person or \$25 per family.
For those who have never experienced the raw sound and power of a Mustang engine or the sight of a massive four-engine bomber taxiing in front of them, this is a rare chance to do so. Jeff Linebaugh, pilot of Gunfighter, described the gathering as a living tribute to the teamwork and heroism that defined an era. JP Pritko of the CAF Central Texas Wing, which operates That’s All, Brother, added that bringing this D-Day aircraft to Kansas City is part of a broader mission: to share stories of courage and freedom that still resonate today.
| B-29 DOC: CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR SEAT ON DOC P-51 Gunfighter: CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR SEAT ON GUNFIGHTER C-47 That’s All, Brother: www.thatsallbrother.org |
The B-29 Doc History Restored Tour runs throughout the year, traveling to dozens of cities across the country. This Kansas City stop, uniting three icons of World War II aviation, promises to be a powerful reminder of the legacy they carry and the people who made history aboard them. For more information, visit www.b29doc.com.
