World War II Planes to Fly Over DC Area Today

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Today starting at about noon more than 50 vintage World War II military aircraft will soar above the skies of the nation’s capital as part of the Arsenal of Democracy: World War II Victory Capitol Flyover.

This event marks the 70th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day and honor the heroes who fought in the War and those on the home front who produced the tanks, ships, and planes that enabled the U.S. and its Allies to achieve victory.

If you can’t see the planes you can watch online here.

Best Viewing

The best place for the public to watch the Flyover is along the National Mall, according to organizers of the flyover. The planes will depart from Manassas Regional Airport and Culpeper Regional Airport, both in Virginia. The first plane should appear around 12:10 p.m., and the Flyover will last about 40 minutes.

The minimum altitude will be 1,000 feet. All planes will adhere to all Federal Aviation Regulations. The event has been extensively coordinated with the Federal Aviation Administration, Transportation Security Administration, United States Secret Service, U.S. Capitol Police and the National Park Service.

Reagan National Airport will be closed from 12 noon to 1 p.m. to accommodate the Flyover. With parking limited near the Mall, Metro offers the best option for transportation to view the Flyover.

The Smithsonian Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, will hold Fly-In to Victory Day on Saturday, May 9, featuring several of the planes participating in the Flyover, as well as educational and World War II-era activities.