One of the few remaining flyable WWII B-17 Bombers, TEXAS RAIDERS, will be making its debut after eight years of extensive restoration in Houston, Texas. The Gulf Coast Wing of the Commemorative Air Force, a non-profit 501-c-3 organization, recently completed work on the B-17 “Flying Fortress” bringing it into airworthy status at a cost of $600,000 and 250,000 hours of volunteer and contract work.
The B-17 is painted in the colors of the 381st BG, 533 Sqd and has appeared in the movies, Ike the War Years and Brady’s Escape. Appearing also in two TV commercials and the PBS Documentary, Honor Squadron, this B-17 will be featured at two major air show events this year, celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the first B-17 flight. At the end of the Central Texas Air Show flying on the 1st and 2nd of May, TEXAS RAIDERS will be offering rides at a cost of $425/person for a 20-30 minute flight. Your donations for rides are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law, and the flight experience is unforgettable. If you wish further information or desire to reserve a flight, please contact Col Walt Thompson, Bomber Operations Officer or Col Sandy Thompson, Public Information Officer at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or via phone at 817 304 0393. Additional information is available at www.gulfcoastwing.org
