High-Flying Fun Ahead at AirFest 2024
NEW AIRCRAFT!
This year AirFest features all NEW AIRCRAFT, as well as a new format. AirFest will run Thursday 8/29 through Sunday 9/1 and include an F-16 flyover on Friday. Even if you have attended before, you will want to make it over to NASW for this event! The EAA and Aero Club of PA will be flying in with unique aircraft on Saturday, and other fly-in aircraft include the state police, AtlantiCare MedEvac, mosquito commission, and USCG helicopter throughout the weekend. Smokey Bear will be stopping by on Sunday. As always, AirFest will feature amazing entertainment including live music by Animal House and Devlin, Ted Schwartz’s WWII radio show, food trucks, Beer & Wine Garden, and free caricatures and face painting. In addition, if you are bored after experiencing all of that, you can go throw an axe with Shore Axes Mobile Axe Throwing who will be on site all four days.
Featured Aircraft:
Supermarine Spitfire - Known as “The Airplane that Saved the World,” the Spitfire was a symbol of Britain’s resistance during the Battle of Britain. Designed as a short-range, high-performance interceptor, the Spitfire was renowned for its agility and speed. The MAM’s Spitfire, MJ730, flew over 100 combat missions during WWII, serving valiantly in various aspects of war. This particular aircraft was famously captured on film by Hollywood director William Wyler for his movie ‘Thunderbolt,’ providing a vivid glimpse into its wartime service.
P-51 Mustang Double Trouble Two - This iconic American fighter, designed in 1940, is a testament to American ingenuity and industrial capability. The North American Aviation Mustang was crucial to Allied air superiority during WWII. The MAM’s P-51D, built in 1945, served with the Eighth Air Force in England, where it was instrumental in long-range bomber escort missions. The aircraft’s specific livery represents a Mustang flown by Lieutenant Colonel “Wild Bill” Bailey, decorated with six aerial victory symbols, showcasing its storied past and combat achievements.
C-54 Spirit of Freedom - This flying exhibit commemorates the Berlin Airlift of 1948-1949, a monumental humanitarian effort to supply West Berlin during the Soviet blockade. The "Spirit of Freedom" is filled with artifacts, photographs, and other items related to the Airlift, serving as a traveling educational exhibit. Built by Douglas Aircraft Company and delivered to the Army Air Corps in 1945, this aircraft played a crucial role in post-war operations before its pivotal participation in the Berlin Airlift. Now, it continues to educate the public as a flying museum and memorial. Guests will be able to board the C-54 at AirFest.
SNJ (AT-6) - The SNJ, an American single-engine advanced trainer aircraft, was used to train pilots of the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF). The SNJ was utilized at NASW during WWII and remains a popular warbird for airshow demonstrations and static displays. The SNJ on display during AirFest belongs to one of our museum members, who graciously flies it in to support NASW. Additionally, next year’s membership coin will feature the SNJ, celebrating its historical significance and continued legacy.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to explore and learn about these unique aircraft while supporting the NASW Aviation Museum. The 28th annual AirFest will feature these historic aircraft along with the museum’s collection of over 27 planes and helicopters, live entertainment, food, and various activities. By attending, you help NASW in its mission to memorialize the 42 men who perished while training at the site, restore Hangar #1, and educate the public.
Stay up to date on schedule and agenda on the museum's social media pages and our website at USNASW.ORG/AIRFEST. Arrival and availability of aircraft for ground viewing are subject to change based on mission, weather, and maintenance circumstances.
|
