A look at Warbird Weekend hosted by Shelby County Airport [PHOTOS]

This weekend, Shelby County Airport hosted Warbird Weekend—a vintage aircraft show featuring planes and helicopters from several major conflicts in the 20^th Century, including WWII.

Keep reading to check out these retro planes!

History buffs unite

Warbird Weekend is a rare event that works with the Commemorative Air Force to exhibit WWII aircraft. Do they fly? Yes, in fact, they do. Some of these old planes were available for flights this weekend.

Here are all of the aircrafts that were present:

• B-25: one of the most aggressive bombers and most utilized during the war, also extremely sturdy.
• B-17: a four-engined heavy bomber primarily used in the European Theater of Operations, nicknamed “The Flying Fortress”
• PT-14: biplane trainer aircraft also used by civilians and had a low-wing design
• UH-1: military helicopter and first-turbine powered helicopter in military history

Along with the planes were a variety of sponsors that helped with the events. Some included Hendrick Hoovers Baker Camp, Arnold Capital Management and more.

A glimpse into the past

Warbird Weekend was a unique opportunity for residents from Shelby County and the surrounding area to see surviving examples of aircraft used in many of the major conflicts of the 20^th Century. More than just museum pieces, these rare aircraft are kept in working condition by meticulous technicians. What better way to understand our complex history than to enjoy viewing these rare spectacles of flight.

Fun fact: The B-25 was even signed by several pilots who participated in the Doolittle Raid; a surprise attack on the Japanese capital of Tokyo that served as both a retribution for Pearl Harbor and demonstrated the capabilities of the U.S. Airforce. 

“It’s not every day you get to see a B-17 Flying Fortress and a B-25 Mitchell flying near where you live! There’s only five B-17’s and thirty two B-25’s still actively flying, so it was a great opportunity to see and hear them up close at Shelby County Airport.”

Jon Eastwood, former Bham-Now producer

Warbird Weekend also featured vintage military vehicles available for exclusive tours and rides.

Did you go to Warbird Weekend? What was the coolest plane you saw? Let us know by tagging us @bhamnow!