B-29 Fifi and B-24 Diamond Lil Need Some More Hangar Attention Ahead of Show

In an update to those looking forward to the upcoming 2024 Sun 'n Fun exhibition, some bad news will rain on the parade a bit.

The Commemorative Air Force, their stewards and caretakers, found a few more items they need to address to keep the birds airworthy in the midst of their regular winter maintenance. Unfortunately, both the CAF AirPower History Tour B-29 Superfortress"FiFi" and the B-24 Liberator "Diamond Lil" need to be grounded for a time in order to keep them in continued airworthy condition. It's a natural outcome of aircraft with the better part of a century under their belt - they need some long-discontinued parts and very niche know-how to keep them in a fine fettle.

The AirPower History Tour will still have some of its charges make their way to Sun 'n Fun, however, with the P-51 Mustang "Gunfighter" and RC-45J Expeditor still committed to the experience. Those who already booked a ride aboard FiFi or Diamond Lil to request a refund via the AirPower History Tour site. Luckily, the Tour aircraft that will show up still have a little more space remaining.

The P-51 has time slots available in 20 and 40-minute increments, starting from April 9th, the first Monday of Sun 'n Fun through Thursday the 11th. There's just one last slot on Saturday, the 13th, for whomever can snag it. The Expeditor (a militarized Beech 18, for those who don't recognize Uncle Sam's moniker for it) and the T-6 Texan also have room in their schedules, but rides tend to go quickly given the more affordable per-seat cost.

FMI: www.airpowersquadron.org