Mid air collision

[George K]

How many air-worthy B-17s are still out there?

[Copper]

45 B-17s survive, 9 are airworthy (12,731 were built)

6 B-24s survive, 2 are airworthy (18,500 were built)

[kluurs]

I remember reading about that B-17 and the people who restored it. It's a shame to lose good people and a bit of history.

" B-17G Flying Fortress Texas Raiders is one of the most recognized and popular warbirds currently flying. The United States built 12,731 B-17s and today only five are actively flying. Texas Raiders was the first Flying Fortress acquired solely for the purpose of restoration and use as a flying museum. The aircraft has been restored to wartime configuration by an entirely volunteer group of dedicated supporters, and has been on her mission to Educate, Inspire, and Honor for the Commemorative Air Force for over 50 years."

[Doctor Phibes]

I’m note sure about air shows. I saw a jet crash at one a few years ago and it was such an unpleasant experience I figure I never want to see it again.

[jon-nyc]

@George-K

WaPo said the Dallas B-17 was one of five still flying.

[George K]

When I went to Oshkosh back in 1997, they were offering rides on a B-17. The line was long, and it was pricey, so D1 and I passed.

We did go up in a 1923 (?) Ford Trimotor.

Here's a sample of prices for a B-17 ride.

[Mik]

I've ridden is planes large and small, and helicopters. For $400 I want to go somewhere.

[kluurs]

As a child, I remember watching the "12 O'clock High" series and thinking that I knew how to fly a B17 after watching the series for a year.

[89th]

Link to video

Worth the full watch. Very good analysis on a number of elements.

[taiwan_girl]

@89th Thanks. That had a lot of good information.