Hangar Talk and Flight of the North American P-51D "Mustang" and the Commemorative Air Force's Boeing B-17G Flying Fortress named "Sentimental Journey"; Saturday, October 4, 2025 at 10:30am.

Museum doors open at 9:00am on this day. 

“Hangar Talk” begins at 10:30am in the Maloney Hangar.

This month we’ve got some great presentations planned.  Here’s what we’re talking about:

From Cleats to Combat Boots: Sport and Service in World War II

Sports has always been an important part of American society.  And yet, the Second World War changed virtually every aspect of this country’s way of life.  The Museum’s Scott Cassells will take a look at fascinating story of how the war impacted sports in America.  From athletes trading in their cleats for combat duty and military service to showing us how the war and its effects on sports resulted in some touching, humorous and even tragic stories.

Hap Arnold: Master of the Air War

The Museum’s David Michaels will return to the Hangar Talk stage to portray General Henry “Hap” Arnold.  General Arnold will tell us about his life and the challenges he faced leading up to and during the Second World War when he commanded Army Air Forces in all theaters of the conflict.  The General promises a few surprise visits by other notables of the era during his presentation.

Chivalry Down at Ye Olde Pub

The Museum’s Ted Mount will bring us another impactful “Ted Talk” as he looks back at a single incident that defied understanding on both sides of the European conflict.  On December 20, 1943, a lone B-17 was struggling valiantly to make it back to base after being shot up during a bombing mission into occupied enemy territory.  As it reached the English Channel and the hope of making it home, the crew spotted a lone German fighter closing fast and seemingly lining up for the “kill.”  What happened next is almost beyond belief and yet speaks to the true nature of humankind.

A Great Flying Day!

This month, we’re flying a “fan-favorite” – the North American P-51D “Mustang”.  At 12:15pm, the Museum’s Jim Llano will provide a brief presentation outdoor on our hot ramp about the Mustang and its role in the Second World War and the Korean War.

Then pilot Rob Patterson will fire up the powerful Merlin engine inside the Mustang right in front of the crowd.  Then Rob will taxi away.

But that’s not all!

We’re also thrilled to be visited by the Commemorative Air Force – Arizona Wing and their Boeing B-17G “Flying Fortress” “Sentimental Journey.”

Immediately following the Mustang’s engine start, the B-17 will fire up her four radial engines and taxi directly in front of the crowd.

Robbie and the Mustang will then perform over the Museum for twenty minutes and upon his return, guests can participate in a Q & A with Robbie and Jim.

PLUS...

• At 12:15pm, we'll be hosting our "Flight" featuring the North AmericanP-51D "Mustang" and a special treat: Engine startup of the Boeing B-17G "Flying Fortress". A brief outdoor presentation will be followed by engine start-up and taxi directly in front of the crowd.  Q & A with the aircraft pilot will follow the flight.
• We will have food trucks on-site, our re-enactors and Museum Guides, and fun stuff for our youngest visitors.
• Our Gift Shop is open and stocked with loads of aviation themed apparel, toys, logo keepsakes, books and many more items.
• The Museum is open until 4:00pm.
• Regular Admission is in effect (Members always admitted free).
• Our "Member's Only" raffle drawing will be held to win a flight in one of our aircraft.
• A great way to spend the day for the whole family at Planes of Fame Air Museum.