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Climb Aboard History at Aviation Discovery Fest 2026

Dallas (June 22, 2026) – Imagine standing beneath the wing of a B-29 Superfortress as its engines rumble to life.

Picture yourself climbing aboard a historic military aircraft, talking with the volunteers who keep it flying, or watching your child discover the science behind flight through hands-on STEM activities.

That’s exactly what awaits visitors at Aviation Discovery Fest 2026, returning to Dallas Executive Airport on November 6-7.

Hosted by the Commemorative Air Force, Aviation Discovery Fest is more than an aviation event. It’s a chance to experience history with all five senses. Visitors can walk among some of the world’s most iconic military aircraft, meet the pilots and mechanics who preserve them, and discover the stories behind the machines that helped shape history.

See Legendary Aircraft Up Close

More than 20 historic aircraft are expected to attend Aviation Discovery Fest, representing nearly a century of military aviation history. From legendary World War II bombers and fighters to trainers, transports, and military aircraft from later eras, visitors will have the opportunity to see these rare machines up close and learn the stories behind them.

Featured Aircraft

Aircraft participating in Aviation Discovery Fest are subject to change due to weather, maintenance requirements, and operational considerations.Aircraft marked with an asterisk (*) are making their Aviation Discovery Fest debut. *

Flying Aircraft
  • P-51 Mustang Gunfighter
  • B-29 Superfortress FIFI
  • B-25 Mitchell Show Me*
  • B-25 Mitchell Devil Dog
  • B-24 Liberator Diamond Lil
  • C-45 Expeditor Bucket of Bolts
  • C-45 Expeditor Yellow Belly
  • AC-47 Gunship Spooky 081
  • TBM Avenger Sweet Louise*
  • PT-13 Stearman
  • AT-6 Texan Nella
Static Display Aircraft
  • P-51 Mustang Glamorous Glen III*
  • P-51 Mustang The Brat III*
  • A-26 Invader
  • O-2A Bird Dog

Additional aircraft are expected to be announced as the event approaches.

More Than an Airshow

Unlike a traditional airshow, Aviation Discovery Fest focuses on access and interaction.

Guests can walk among the aircraft, speak directly with pilots and restoration experts, and learn how volunteers continue to preserve these flying pieces of history decades after they were built.

Throughout the weekend, historic aircraft will start engines, taxi, and conduct demonstration activities that bring aviation history to life.

Fly in a Historic Aircraft

One of the most popular attractions at Aviation Discovery Fest is the opportunity to purchase a ride aboard select vintage aircraft.

Few experiences compare to hearing a radial engine start, feeling the aircraft lift off the runway, and seeing Dallas from the seat of a historic warbird.

Ride flights will be available throughout the weekend, with additional flights offered on Sunday.

Discover the Future of Aviation

History is only part of the story.

The Aviation Discovery Zone introduces young people to the future of flight through hands-on STEM activities, interactive exhibits, and educational demonstrations.

Students can explore careers in aviation, aerospace, engineering, aircraft maintenance, and other technical fields while learning the science behind flight.

Plan Your Visit

Aviation Discovery Fest 2026
Dallas Executive Airport
November 6-7, 2026

Friday: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Free Parking

Whether you’re a lifelong aviation enthusiast, a family looking for a unique weekend adventure, or simply curious about the aircraft that helped shape history, Aviation Discovery Fest offers an unforgettable opportunity to get closer to aviation than ever before.

Tickets and additional information are available at AviationDiscoveryFest.org.

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