Flight delays are typically a bad thing, but no one seemed to mind as our small group of passengers waited for the Blue Angels to finish practicing. The elite Navy planes tore through the sky in stunning formations. Our flight aboard a Boeing B-17 “Aluminum Overcast” would be a little slower—and certainly less flashy—but just as special.
These historic aircraft are in town for the Spirit of St. Louis Air Show and STEM Expo. After a hiatus, the air show will return to Chesterfield’s Spirit of St. Louis Airport this weekend, May 3 through 4—good timing, considering the Fair St. Louis Air Show will be grounded this summer. This year’s show boasts a full bill of performances and displays, as well as family-friendly activities. The shows include demonstrations by the Blue Angels and Sky Soldiers. Another point of interest: the Budweiser Brewmaster Tour, which stops here as part of its 45–week, nationwide tour.
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Along with the demos and displays, several aircraft-ride experiences are available. While walk-ups rides are available, it’s better to book ahead. I was fortunte enough to get a ride aboard a Boeing B-17 Aluminum Overcast. This flying fortress was a WWII bomber, the type typically used in Europe for long–range missions over enemy territory. Many people are familiar with this aircraft from the 1990 film Memphis Belle. It came off the assembly line on May 18, 1945, after the end of the European Conflict, so it never actually saw battle. It’s one of approximately a dozen bombers like it that are still functional. Based out of Oshkosh, Wisc., the plane tours from April through November.
The B–17 flies relatively smoothly, with a hum like an oversize bumblebee—a welcome change from the Blue Angel’s screaming jets. The bomber is full of authentic gear and equipment, though the ammunition and weaponry isn’t live. While aboard the plane, we were advised to keep a handhold for balance—but not to accidentally grab the bare cables overhead, running directly from the pilots’ controls to the rudders and tail.
“You grab a hold of one of those,” said crew chief Rich Krikorian, “and suddenly you’re the pilot.”
Visit spirit-airshow.com for more information and advance tickets. Patrons are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, but coolers and umbrellas are not permitted. Food and drink will be available for purchase.
