SEATTLE, June 12, 2009

--Two historic World War II bombers and a rare, two-seat P-51 fighter aircraft will be at The Museum of Flight from June 19-22 for ground tours and flights open to the public. The aircraft are on a national "Wings of Freedom Tour" sponsored by the non-profit Collings Foundation. The Consolidated B-24J and dual control, two-seat North American P-51C Mustang are the sole remaining examples of their type flying in the World. The general public will have the opportunity to visit, explore and learn more about these unique and rare treasures of aviation history. The aircraft are scheduled to arrive Friday, June 19 at 2 p.m. and will be stationed at the Museum's ramp on Boeing Field. Tours and rides are available from 2-5 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.Sunday, and 10 a.m. to noon on Monday.
 
Individuals can purchase flights on the B-17, B-24 and P-51. For information on flight reservations and costs, call 800-568-8924 or visit www.collingsfoundation.org


Visitors can see other World War II aircraft inside the Museum's Personal Courage Wing. Fighters displayed include examples from Japan, Germany, England, the Soviet Union and the United States. The Museum of Flight has a B-17F in its collection, built in Seattle by Boeing in 1943. It is the only flyable F model left in the world. 

Media Opportunities:
There are a limited number of seats available to media in each of the bombers during their formation flight from William R. Fairchild International Airport in Port Angeles to The Museum of Flight at Boeing Field. Participants should meet the flight crews at the Port Angeles airport by noon on June 19. Aircraft will depart at about 1:30 p.m. and arrive at Boeing Field at about 2:00 p.m. A former World War II Tuskegee Airman veteran from the Seattle area is scheduled to onboard one of the planes during the inbound flight to Seattle. Crew members and the Tuskegee Airman will be available for interviews. There will also be seats available to the media on the bombers during flights from the Museum at 4:30 p.m. Please contact the Museum's public relations office for scheduling.
 
For information about the Collings Foundation: www.collingsfoundation.org