Hamilton Airshow flies high
It was home to war machine guns, cannons and all kinds of deadly bombs.
Meet the Boeing B-29 Superfortress, FIFI. It’s known as a warplane heavy weight that was built for the United States Army Air Forces back in 1940, an aircraft that dropped the first atomic bomb on Japan in World War II.
"It is the last bomber of its kind in the world and one ofthe largest war birds to be flying in the world," Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum’s David Hills said.
Peter Treichler works for the Commemorative Air Force out of Addison, Texas. He pilots a B-29 and says although he is working and leading acrew in the air, there are still moments in flight where he contemplates the historic significance of what he’s flying.
"It’s nice to be able to step back a little bit from the joband just consider the heroism and sacrifice that all the veterans made inoperating these aircraft," Treichler explained.
[IMAGEGALLERY galleryid=2570 size=small]
Local residents can get up close and personal with the aircraft during this year’s Hamilton Airshow. Take photos and even climb up for a cockpit tour. The dazzle of the plane won’t be limited to the ground either. The famous bomber will also be flying high.
"No other air show in decades in North America has had a B-25, a Lancaster, B-29 and B-17 all in formation. It’s going to be anunparalleled view for anyone who comes out to the show," explained Hills.
Canada’s very own Snowbirds and the Royal Canadian Air Force’sCF-18 demo team will also be in attendance. Over 40 vintage flying aircraft arepart of the event’s line-up as well.
"Volunteers put in countless hours and this could not bedone if it wasn’t for the Hamilton Airport," added Hills.
Follow the excitement on Twitter with the hashtag #hamairshow.
The Hamilton Airshow takes place June 16-17 at the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum. Gates open at 8 a.m. both days. The flying show takes place between noon and 4:30 p.m.. Advance tickets are available online or at the museum until June 15 at 5 p.m..
Prices: Adult — $27 in advance, $30 at the gate Children (6-15) — $15 in advance, $20 at the gate Members and kids under 5 — free