HICKORY, NC (September 25, 2018) — The World War II Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress “Madras Maiden” will take to the skies over Hickory. Flight Experience fights in the airplane ($450 per person) are available on a first come first served basis. For information regarding these flights or to book a seat, call 678-589-7433 or email kyle@libertyfoundation.org.
The Liberty Foundation’s 2018 Salute to Veterans tour has arrived at the
Hickory Regional Airport and the Hickory Aviation Museum
3101 9th Ave. Dr. NW, Hickory, NC.
On display will be the famous Boeing B-17 “Madras Maiden”
celebrating 73 years since the end of WWII.
During flight operations, there will be a designated, secure area for those who would like to watch the aircraft flights at no charge. For enthusiasts that choose to take a Flight Experience on this legendary aircraft, these participants receive a pre-flight safety briefing containing the historical significance of the aircraft and a spectacular scenic air tour around the city. During the flight, passengers enjoy the unique opportunity of moving about the aircraft to the different combat crew positions to see the viewpoint that thousands of our heroes saw in combat over 70 years ago.
In addition to the flights the aircraft will be available for ground tours, once the day’s flights have been completed. There is no charge for these tours. We do ask you to consider a donation to the Foundation. These funds help us finance ongoing restoration and maintenance of the B-17, as well as other historic aircraft in the Liberty Foundation’s collection.
Our cost to operate the B-17 exceeds $5,000 per flight hour. The Liberty Foundation spends more than $1,500,000 annually to keep the B-17 airworthy and out on tour. The Liberty Foundation is a 501(c) (3) non-profit flying museum and funds generated merely help offset or operating costs. Only the public’s interest and other generous donations keep this historic aircraft flying and from being silenced permanently in a museum for years to come.
Come out to see, tour and fly a mission and take advantage of this ultimate historical experience, come touch the past and fly through ageless skies.
Press Release courtesy of Kyle Guyette