Back in Time Today
The legendary B-29 Superfortress played a pivotal role during World War II, notable for its advanced engineering and historical impact. Today, only 11 of these majestic aircraft remain, each with its unique story and legacy.
From airworthy marvels to static displays, these B-29s continue to capture the imagination and respect of aviation enthusiasts and historians alike.
This article explores the significance of each surviving bomber, detailing their locations, current statuses, and the historical importance they hold.
Join us as we embark on a journey to explore these fascinating remnants of aviation history.
1. FIFI – The First B-29 to Fly Again
FIFI reigns as the queen of the airshow circuit. Restored by the Commemorative Air Force in 1971, she was the first B-29 to take to the skies again. For decades, she was the only airworthy Superfortress, mesmerizing audiences across the U.S. Her polished exterior glistens, capturing the essence of aviation history with every flight. At airshows, she stands not just as an aircraft, but as a symbol of resilience and triumph. Flying FIFI is akin to holding a piece of history, a reminder of technological innovation that shaped the world.
2. Doc – The Pride of Wichita
Emerging from the desert sands, Doc’s transformation is nothing short of miraculous. Rescued in 1987 and taking 30 years to restore, she returned to the skies in 2016. Based in Wichita, Kansas, Doc is now a flying testament to dedication and craftsmanship. Her journey from neglect to glory serves as an inspiring tale for all. As a mobile museum, she educates and enlightens, bridging the past and present. Flying over Kansas fields, Doc whispers stories of wartime valor and peace-time perseverance.
3. Enola Gay – The World Changed When She Flew
August 6, 1945, a date that altered the course of history. Enola Gay, the B-29 that dropped the first atomic bomb on Hiroshima, now rests fully restored at the Smithsonian’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. Though she no longer flies, her presence is profound, her legacy unmatched. Visitors flock to witness the very aircraft that changed global dynamics. Enola Gay stands as a solemn reminder of conflict’s gravity, peace’s fragility, and history’s enduring impact. Her polished exterior silently narrates tales of a world forever changed.
4. Bockscar – Nagasaki’s Deliverer
Bockscar, the harbinger of fate for Nagasaki, sits preserved at the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton, Ohio. This aircraft delivered the second atomic bomb on August 9, 1945, altering the course of World War II. Her exterior, marked by historical significance, invites contemplation and reflection. Each rivet, each panel, a testament to an era of monumental decisions and irreversible actions. Though grounded, Bockscar’s story continues to echo through the halls of history, a pivotal piece in the tapestry of global events.
5. Hagerty’s Hag – A Work-in-Progress
In a hangar filled with echoes of ambition, Hagerty’s Hag awaits her return to the sky. Named to honor a WWII pilot, this B-29 is currently undergoing a meticulous restoration by a passionate private group. Her journey is one of aspiration and homage, a tribute to the airmen of yesteryears. Each bolt tightened, each panel restored, represents a step toward her future flights. While she remains earthbound for now, Hagerty’s Hag embodies hope, legacy, and the indomitable spirit of preservation and passion.
6. Jack’s Hack – Fully Restored Static Display
At the New England Air Museum, Jack’s Hack stands as a beacon of aviation heritage. This fully restored B-29 captivates visitors with its intricate details and polished finish. Each component has been painstakingly refurbished to its former glory, offering a glimpse into the craftsmanship of the past. While she may never soar again, Jack’s Hack serves as a static yet powerful tribute to the era of the Superfortress. She invites visitors to delve into the history of aviation, innovation, and the resilience of human achievement.
7. Dauntless Dotty – Hollywood Fame
Though the original Dauntless Dotty was the first B-29 to bomb Tokyo, her legacy continues through silver screens. A modified B-17 portrayed her in “The Great Raid,” bringing her story to audiences worldwide. Ongoing efforts aim to recreate her tale, immortalizing her bravery and impact. Hollywood’s depiction captures the essence of valor and determination, echoing real-life missions. Dauntless Dotty’s cinematic journey speaks to the power of storytelling, where legends of the skies meet the magic of film, ensuring her spirit never fades.
8. Raz’n Hell – Desert Survivor
Once abandoned in the relentless desert, Raz’n Hell now stands proudly at the Pima Air & Space Museum in Arizona. Her journey from decay to display is a testament to resilience and restoration. Against the stark desert backdrop, she narrates tales of survival against odds. Her presence is a visual reminder of the harsh elements she once endured. Raz’n Hell is more than a relic; she’s a symbol of rebirth, preservation, and the undying legacy of the Superfortress. Visitors find inspiration in her restored grandeur.
9. Kee Bird – The Frozen Time Capsule
Frozen in time, Kee Bird rests on a lake in Greenland, a testament to aviation’s challenges. Crash-landed in 1947, her recovery attempt in 1995 ended in tragedy, leaving her entombed. Kee Bird’s story is one of daring exploration, resilience, and mystery. Amidst ice and silence, she serves as an icy monument to the past. Though unreachable, her legend grows, attracting adventurers and historians alike. Kee Bird remains a poignant symbol of the perils and perseverance inherent in the realm of aviation history.
10. It’s Hawg Wild – A Static Display with a Unique Paint Job
Adorned in desert camouflage, It’s Hawg Wild captures attention at the Hill Aerospace Museum in Utah. Though grounded, her vibrant paintwork sets her apart from her monochrome peers. This static exhibit offers a visual feast, a fusion of artistry and engineering. Visitors marvel at her distinct style, a nod to both creativity and history. Hawg Wild’s unique appearance tells stories of adaptability and innovation, serving as a static yet engaging testament to the diverse heritage of the B-29 Superfortresses.
11. Thunderbird – A Static Tribute to Airmen
At the March Field Air Museum in California, Thunderbird stands as a hallowed tribute to the airmen of WWII. Fully restored, she gleams under the California sun, her presence both solemn and inspiring. Surrounded by memorial plaques, visitors reflect on the sacrifices and courage of those who served. Thunderbird’s static display honors their legacy, bridging past valor with present admiration. Each visit is a journey through time, a silent salute to the bravery and dedication that defined an era and continues to inspire.