CAF Announces Big Move

The Big “D” is about to get its own Air Force! The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) just announced its selection of Dallas Executive Airport as the location for their CAF National Airbase and corporate Headquarters.

According to Neils Agather, CAF Chairman of the Board, “We unanimously found Dallas Executive to be the best fit with our needs.” The CAF will move a few initial staff in 2014, with the full operations of its Headquarters arriving in Dallas by the end of 2015. “We also have the goal of constructing a world-class aviation visitor attraction, unlike any other in the United States,” said Stephan C. Brown, President and CEO (shown below).

“It will educate and entertain young and old alike using the very best of modern display techniques, including interactive displays, 4D movie experiences and hyper-realistic flight simulators. We will also be using the most interactive assets we have - the largest fleet of flying vintage military aircraft in the world. And to that end, we are announcing our plans to raise the funds necessary to build this facility, initially estimated at $40 million.”

Adam Smith, CAF Executive Vice President and National Airbase Project Leader said, “This will be a major tourism and educational asset for the City of Dallas. We have a unique opportunity at this location to inspire hundreds of thousands of children and adults with some incredible airplanes and also to share the important stories the aircraft carry, of human endeavor and sacrifice in the name of freedom."

CAF’s National Airbase will become the permanent home to the world’s only flying B-29 Superfortess FIFI and the B-24 Liberator Diamond Lil one of only two left flying. Other exciting fighters, cargo and transport aircraft will also make Dallas Executive their home. On display at the press conference were the B-29, B-24, P-51C Tuskegee Airmen, B-17 Texas Raiders, A-26 Invader, C-45 Bucket of Bolts, R4D Ready for Duty, P-40 as well as several other World War II warbirds.

The CAF reached initial terms with the City’s Economic Development and Aviation Departments in early April and the City Council’s consideration of a proposed lease and associated financial arrangements will take place in the near future.

Along with the planned year-round public attraction, the CAF plans to hold up to three major events per year; including an annual World War II airshow.

FMI: www.commemorativeairforce.org