[Black 6]

I came across this news story and video about B-17 bomber rides through the Liberty Foundation. Their B-17, the Liberty Belle, looks pretty cool and appears to be a MUCH better deal than that offered by the Collings Foundation. Has anyone gone for a ride with this group?

Denver Post Video Link

[PappyB]

Originally Posted by Black 6

I came across this news story and video about B-17 bomber rides through the Liberty Foundation. Their B-17, the Liberty Belle, looks pretty cool and appears to be a MUCH better deal than that offered by the Collings Foundation. Has anyone gone for a ride with this group?

Denver Post Video Link

Haven't taken the ride but I saw them at this airport a few years ago, they're much friendlier than the CF crew -- I was allowed early access with my camera to shoot the plane before the crowds arrived, and I wasn't a paying passenger (try that at a CF event) :-)

How's it a better deal, though -- the price seems the same (or close) and the ride's the same length?

[todd1969]

I have taken a ride on the Liberty Belle and highly recommend it. It was under $400 last year so it was a better price then. The guy who runs the check in process is a super nice guy.

[Black 6]

Originally Posted by PappyB

Haven't taken the ride but I saw them at this airport a few years ago, they're much friendlier than the CF crew -- I was allowed early access with my camera to shoot the plane before the crowds arrived, and I wasn't a paying passenger (try that at a CF event) :-)

How's it a better deal, though -- the price seems the same (or close) and the ride's the same length?

I agree, that after seeing them in Sacramento last year, that the CF crew are a bit gruff and mercenary when it comes to access.

As for it being a better deal, Liberty gives you a 45 minute flight (30 minutes in the air) whereas the CF only does 30 minutes (including ground time). There is a $5.00 cost difference with Liberty charging $430 and CF charging $425. So if that extra five gives you more time in the sky I think it is pretty good deal!

[IKONOS]

Here's a couple of video's my wife captured when 'LB' was here in SC back in February.





... and here's a link to some pictures from the same visit.

[Black 6]

Nice vids and pics Ikonos! Thanks for sharing.

[Captain Eddie]

Great videos! I never tire of hearing and seeing a B17, love the sound of the Wright-Cyclone engines. As I saw on a bumper sticker once, "Real Engines are Round!"

[mustangdriver]

I flew Fuddy Duddy a few years ago, and it was well worth it. Most of the places won't let you fly them anymore or even in the cockpit for that matter. Either way it is still great to support these warbirds, and get a far better appreciation for what it was like to fight in one of these aircraft.