CAF to Host 2nd Annual Aviation Discovery Fest in Dallas Oct 4-6

Anyone who knows me knows how much I love the sound of big beefy radial engines roaring up the flight line or maybe a Rolls-Royce Merlin-powered P51 screaming down on show center for a knife-edge photo pass. I'm talking about air shows baby, and there's a good one coming soon in Big D.

The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) has been dedicated to preserving, protecting, and sharing the legacy of American military aviation since 1957. Coming up October 4-6, 2024, the Dallas-based nonprofit will once again host the Aviation Discovery Fest at Dallas Executive Airport, and show off an amazing lineup of historic World War II-era aircraft.

Make sure your camera has plenty of room on the memory card because you will take lots of pictures. Plus, you have the unique opportunity to explore and even book private flights aboard these iconic aircraft. I have been blessed in my life to take several rides in different WWII warbirds, and every time I think about it, I get giddy all over again. It can happen for you too. If you're an aviation enthusiast or history buff, these flights offer a rare chance to relive history in an unforgettable way, while also supporting the preservation of these rare flying treasures. In addition to private flights, visitors can tour several aircraft cockpits and engage in hands-on experiences throughout the event.

New to this year’s festival is the AC-47 “Spooky,” a gunship famously used during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Nicknamed “Puff the Magic Dragon” for its distinctive bombing runs, this aircraft will be on static display, with veterans who once piloted these warbirds on-site to share their stories.

Hard to imagine, but the Aviation Discovery Fest is about more than just aircraft.  Who knew! You will also enjoy one of the largest Living History experiences in the country, complete with re-enactors, military vehicles, and interactive wartime displays. Kids will have the opportunity to ride in authentic military transport vehicles, including half-tracks.

Friday, October 4, is designated Education Day, offering thousands of students, including school groups and homeschoolers, free admission if they register by September 20. Teachers and homeschool groups can sign up at aviationdiscoveryfest.org/education-day.

The event needs many volunteers to help make the weekend a success. If you're interested, you can register at aviationdiscoveryfest.org/volunteer.

Tickets for the Aviation Discovery Fest start at just $5. Families can purchase a Family Pass—which includes entry for two adults and up to three children on either Saturday or Sunday—for $40, offering up to $30 in savings. New this year, attendees can purchase a Cockpit Tour Pass for exclusive access inside the aircraft. Tickets are available at aviationdiscoveryfest.org.

I got bit by the aviation bug pretty hard attending airshows like this all my life. I don't get many chances to do it these days but I never pass it up when I get one... I love it!

When: Oct. 4-6, 2024

Friday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 5, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Sunday, Oct. 6, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Where:

5657 Mariner Dr., Dallas, TX 75237 (see map below)

Price:

Tickets (Good for 1 Day; not including online fees)

• Family Pass (2 adults & up to 3 kids ages 18 and younger; valid for Saturday or Sunday entry) $40
• Adults (18-64) $20
• Seniors (65 & up) $15
• Veterans & CAF Colonels $10
• Students (12-18) $10
• Children (6-12) $5
• Kids 5 and younger are free when accompanied by a ticketed adult

Free on Friday for registered school-age students, children under 5, active/retired military and CAF Colonel members

Info: aviationdiscoveryfest.org

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