Among the thousands of aircraft descending on Florida’s Lakeland Linder Regional Airport (LAL) for this year’s Sun ‘n Fun International Fly-In & Expo, which will be held April 13-18, will be historic military aircraft flown by the Commemorative Air Force (CAF).
“It’s amazing to see the reaction when a gaggle of Warbirds fly overhead,” said Sun ‘n Fun President and Convention Chairman John Burton. “That is one of many reasons why Sun ‘n Fun is pleased to again welcome back the aircraft and pilots of the CAF who are returning to Lakeland for our 36th annual event.
Collecting, restoring and flying vintage historical aircraft for more than half a century, the CAF ranks as one of the largest private air forces in the world. Dedicated to honoring American military aviation through flight, exhibition and remembrance, CAF is a non-profit educational association with approximately 9,000 members and a fleet of 156 airplanes representing more than 60 different types, including airplanes from several foreign countries and military conflicts since World War II.
The CAF Ride Program offers people a flight experience in the CAF’s P-51D Mustang “Red Nose” (pictured above); the B-24A Liberator “Ol’ 927”; and the B-25 “Yellow Rose” (pictured left). Flight time averages 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the aircraft. All rides include a passenger briefing. B-24A Liberator rides are $450; B-25 rides are $375; and P-51D Mustang rides are $1,195. All rides are limited and subject to weather. Rides can be booked prior to the fly-in through the CAF’s Terri Brown at 850-368-3918 or at the show at CAF’s membership tent, “Hangar 57”, which will be located on the Warbird Ramp..
For more information: Sun-n-Fun.org
