Explore WWII Aircraft At Cobb Airport Before Memorial Day

COBB COUNTY, GA — Of the 12,731 B-17 bombers built in the U.S. and flown in World War II, only five are left flying — and some are coming to Cobb County until May 27.

The Texas Raiders, a fully-restored B-17 flying fortress, is landing in Cobb County International Airport, located at 1723 McCollum Parkway in Kennesaw, for tours and public flights May 24 through May 27. The Commemorative Air Force will have other WWII aircraft, besides the B-17 bomber, including:

• P-51 fighter
• Dauntless dive-bomber
• T6 Texan trainer
• Five-passenger Navy transport “Little Raider”

Residents can take cockpit tours and living history flights for a rare opportunity to see some of the country's most storied aircraft. Admission to the event is $10 for adults, $5 for children under age 12 and $20 for a family of up to five. Tickets include access to all the aircraft for cockpit tours and briefings by flight crews.

A limited number of flights are available as well. Flights on the various aircraft range from $100 in the Navy transport to $380 in the advanced trainer to $1,695 in the P-51 Mustang. Seats on the B-17 start at $475. Those who wish to fly can call 1-855-FLY-A-B17 (1-855-359-2217) or reserve online at B17TexasRaiders.org.

Additionally, Kelly’s Zeroes — a local group of WWII re-enactors — will also be participating in the event. Founded in Atlanta in 2005, Kelly's Zeroes' mission is to honor America’s servicemen and women through education and historical preservation.

Wearing the uniforms and equipment of WWII, the group will represent the U.S. Army Air Force, and will portray ground crew as well as male and female aviators, according to a CAF news release.

Ground tours will be conducted from noon to 5 p.m. Monday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, excluding flying times. Visit Hawthorne Global Aviation Services at 1800 Airport Road, Gate G in Kennesaw to see the aircraft for tours and flights.