'Brace Yourselves:' WWII Bomber Takes People High Over Washington County
WASHINGTON (KDKA) -- The Flying Fortress, in all its glory, sits on the tarmac at the Washington County Airport, just one of less than a dozen B-17s still airworthy.
"We're bringing history around the country a little bit," said Aircraft Commander Ken Morris.
KDKA had a great view in the aircraft that was built in 1945, crawling into the chin turret where the bombardier of the plane would sit. While it's no longer used for it's original purpose, the location made for amazing sights as we flew over Washington County.
"As soon as we get up, brace yourselves though. The plane is going to swing and sway in the air currents," said one flight expert.
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After a briefing, people are allowed on board for a rare flight on a B-17. The experimental aircraft association brought the plane to Washington County and is offering flights this weekend.
"My uncle was a B-17 pilot and I said 'well this is the seat he sat in,'" said Morris.
Morris is one the aircraft commanders. And for him, flying is part of his family history. So what's it like to fly a plane like this?
"Like a cement truck without power steering," he said.
As they take the B-17 around the country, the commanders say they have some very special passengers.
"The best part about it is meeting the veterans that we see," one flight expert said.
