Iconic Superfortresses Again Reunite at the World’s Greatest Airshow

B-29 ‘FIFI’ has returned to flight after months of intensive engine repairs, and we all know what that means: Oshkosh will again see the reunion of the world’s only airworthy Superfortresses. FIFI and DOC will take turns in Boeing Plaza and offer flight experiences throughout the week.

The Commemorative Air Force’s B-29 FIFI had been undergoing typical preseason checks when issues were spotted with engines two and four (for plane nerds, the problem was with the impeller spinner discharge valves in the superchargers). These were identified as necessary repairs, leaving Squadron leadership with the tough decision to delay the aircraft’s tour.

The maintenance team removed the two damaged engines and shipped them off for repairs and test runs. Engines two and four were then escorted back to Dallas, arriving safe and sound on June 16. They have since been reinstalled and all checks have been signed off, allowing FIFI to get back in the skies.

“I’m incredibly proud of our team,” said Matthew Hood, Maintenance Officer of the CAF’s B-29/B-24 Squadron. “They treat FIFI with reverence. Every inspection, every bolt turned, is done with deep respect for what this aircraft represents—not just to the CAF, but to history.”

FIFI’s return came just in time for the 2025 EAA Oshkosh AirVenture show. The B-29 and her crew arrived on site at around 1:00 pm on Monday, July 21, allowing her to take her spot on display at Boeing Plaza. The other iconic B-29, DOC, will replace FIFI on July 24 and take center stage on the plaza.

Flight experiences on both bombers will be available during the show. DOC will be offering rides at the nearby Appleton International Airport for the first half before switching with FIFI, who will be flying visitors until the 27th.

The B-29 duo has made only a handful of public appearances since it made its first joint flight at the 2017 AirVenture airshow. FIFI and DOC have made their way to Oshkosh four times now, including at last year’s event.

“As AirVenture is the world’s largest annual gathering of warbirds, bringing these two iconic aircraft together is another of those ‘Only at Oshkosh’ moments,” stated Rick Larsen, EAA VP of Communities and Member Programs. “These airplanes are big favorites wherever they appear separately, but together they make the occasion even more unforgettable.”

FMI: www.eaa.org