Wings of Freedom Tour Returns to Dutchess County Airport

POUGHKEEPSIE, NY — The Wings for Freedom Tour will return to the Dutchess County Airport.

From Friday, September 9 through Sunday, September 11, the tour will feature historic aircraft including the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress “Nine O Nine,” which is only one of eight in flying condition in the United States, according to information from a county spokeswoman.

Also on display will be a World War II P-51C Mustang dual-control fighter.

A memorial ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. Sunday, September 11 to honor the victims, survivors and heroes of the September 11 terrorist attacks.

The tour is sponsored by the Collings Foundation, a nonprofit educational organization that supports “living history” events.

The airport’s Acting Director John Mouris said this will be the third year in a row the Wings of Freedom Tour has come to the Dutchess County Airport.

While the Collings Foundation does not typically schedule repeat appearances, when they had an opening in their schedule, they opted to return to Dutchess based on the great reception they have received on their prior visits and we are thrilled to welcome them back,” Mouris said.

Visitors to the airport will be provided a unique and rare opportunity to explore these aircrafts inside and out. Tour prices are $12 for adults and $6 for children 12 and younger. WWII Veterans can tour through the aircraft at no cost. Discounted rates are also available for school groups.

The Wings of Freedom Tour hours are as follows:

• Friday, September 9 from 2pm to 5pm
• Saturday, September 10 from 9am to 5pm
• Sunday, September 11 from 9am to 5pm

Visitors can also take advantage of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity by taking a 30-minute flight aboard these rare aircraft. Flights on either the B-17 or B-24 are $450 per person. Flights on the B-25 are $400 per person. P-51C flight training is available for $2,200 for a half hour and $3,200 for a full hour. For reservations and information on flight experiences, call 1-800-568-8924.

See the event flyer by clicking here.

Photo credit: Courtesy.