PORT ANGELES — History buffs, aviation aficionados or anyone with a curiosity about World War II can climb aboard a B-17 Flying Fortress, a B-24 Liberator or a P-51 Mustang next week when the Collings Foundation’s Wings of Freedom tour lands in Port Angeles.
The wartime aircraft will land at William R. Fairchild International Airport on Monday, June 20, for a two-day stopover on the North Olympic Peninsula.
People can tour the inside of the planes at the airport’s east general aviation ramp. The cost for a tour is $12 for adults or $6 for kids younger than 12.
World War II veterans can tour the planes for free.
For the ultimate experience, people can reserve half-hour flights aboard the B-17 or B-24 for $425 per person.
Flights aboard the P-51 are being offered for $2,200 for a half-hour or $3,200 for an hour.
Phone 800-568-8924 for reservations.
The Collings Foundation is a nonprofit organization that presents living history exhibits for people to experience their history and heritage through direct participation.
The 22-year-old Wings of Freedom tour stops at an average of 110 cities every year.
The last Wings of Freedom tour stop in Port Angeles occurred in June 2009.
On Tuesday, Clallam County commissioners are expected to sign a proclamation declaring June 19 to 25 as Wings of Freedom Week.
For more information about Wings of Freedom, phone area stop coordinator Alan Barnard at 360-461-0175 or visit www.collingsfoundation.org.
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Reporter Rob Ollikainen can be reached at 360-417-3537 or at rob.ollikainen@peninsuladailynews.com
