The Flying Fortress—the Boing B17-G—was originally designed in response to a need for a long-range maritime patrol aircraft. The prototype for this aircraft first flew in 1935 and entered into service in 1939. During World War II, the B17 was used in all theaters and is best known for its role in daylight bombing over Europe. The front yard of the Planes of Fame Air Museum is located at the Chino, California, airport, contains a B17-G which is being restored to flying status.
According to the Museum’s website:
“Planes of Fame Air Museum's B-17 was built by Douglas Aircraft and entered service too late to see combat. It served in a few training units, was placed in storage, and then placed back in service as a drone controller. When it was finally retired from military service, it had the distinction of being the last B-17 on active duty.
Following military service, Piccadilly Lilly II lay dormant until being revived as a movie star. It appeared in The Thousand Plane Raid, Fort Apache, and Black Sheep Squadron. It is best known for its role as 'Piccadilly Lilly' in the television series Twelve O'clock High.”
More Airplanes
Planes of Fame: Some Naval Aircraft (Photo Diary)
Planes of Fame: Japanese Airplanes (Photo Diary)
Planes of Fame: P-38 Lightning (Photo Diary)
Yanks Air Museum: Multiple Engine Aircraft (Photo Diary)
Yanks Air Museum: World War II Bombers (Photo Diary)
Yanks Air Museum: Military Jets (Photo Diary)
