Vintage second world war planes visiting Kamloops, Penticton

PENTICTON – The distinctive rumble and roar of two World War II vintage aircraft heard over Kamloops this week will be heading to Penticton next.

Commemorative Air Force Airbase Arizona public information officer Richard Mitchell says the B-17 flying fortress “Sentimental Journey” and the B-25 bomber “Maid in the Shade” will be flying into Penticton Regional Airport on Monday, July 8 for a week-long stay.

The aircraft are currently at Kamloops airport until Sunday, July 7, before flying to Penticton airport on Monday where they'll be set up until Sunday, July 14. While the planes are at the airports, the Commemorative Air Force offers tours and rides to the public.

The B-17 bomber is a heavy bomber that was considered a heavily armed warplane. It earned a reputation for its ability to take heavy damage and keep flying. “Sentimental Journey” is one of only 10 still flying, from 13,000 originally manufactured.

The B-25 “Maid in the Shade” is one of 10,000 Mitchell bombers produced, and one of 34 still flying today. It was used mainly as a low altitude strafe and skip bomber.

The Kamloops and Penticton events are the only two Canadian stops on this year's tour.

For information on tours and flights, see the Air Force Airbase Arizona website here.

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