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WILLOUGHBY – Aluminum Overcast is a remarkable piece of history. Known as “The Flying Fortress,” the B-17 bomber is considered one of the greatest military airplanes ever built and one of the best-known aircraft types of the World War II era.

Since the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) began tours of the aircraft in 1994, tens of thousands of people have experienced this unique airplane through its flights and ground tours.
“For more than 20 years, EAA’s national B-17 tour has been America’s most popular way to learn about this unique aircraft in an up-close way,” said Jack Pelton, EAA Chairman of the Board in a press release. “EAA is dedicated to preserving the spirit of aviation through these B-17 tours. It is more than the flight of a historic aircraft – it is an emotional connection to the men and women who were part the ‘The Greatest Generation’ and the sacrifices they made to benefit us in subsequent generations.”
During its national tour, Aluminum Overcast will be at Lost Nation Municipal Airport from Sept. 6-8.
The public can purchase tickets for this once-in-a-lifetime flight experience. During the flight, passengers can visit the various compartments of the aircraft like the nose, bomb bay, navigation/radio, cockpit and waist sections. Rides are $435 for EAA members and $475 for non-EAA members which includes a one-year EAA membership.
The flights are from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Rides for the public are available for purchase now by going online to B17.org. Register in advance and save.
The proceeds of the B-17 tour stop will help the EAA Chapter 5 defray the cost of the B-17 tour.
Ground tours are available in the afternoon from 2–5 p.m. Ground tour tickets are $10 person (8 and under free with an adult purchase), $20 for a family (adults and children up to age 17) and veterans and active military are free.
Pancake breakfasts will be held on Sept. 7 and Sept. 8 from 8-11 a.m. Pancake breakfast prices are $8 for adults and $4 for children (3-12). Proceeds from the pancake breakfasts will assist the youth programs at both Lost Nation and Geauga County airports.
There will also be a fundraising raffle for a pedal plane. The plane moves by pedaling and steers by moving the control stick. A rotating propeller gives the “Gee Bee R2” pedal plane an authentic look. This plane is best suited for children 3-7 years old.
Pedal plane raffle tickets are $5 each, 3 for $10 and 8 for $20, cash only. Tickets are available at Geauga County or Lost Nation airports, from EAA chapter members, by calling Sherry Niederkorn at (440) 477-1198 and via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
The drawing will be held at noon at the pancake breakfast fly-in on Sept. 21 at the Geauga County Airport in Middlefield. All proceeds benefit EAA Chapter 5 youth programs.
For more information on this event, visit www.facebook.com/events/2458978757457581. For more information on the EAA Chapter 5, visit www.5.eaachapter.org. 
Submitted Photo
During its national tour, Aluminum Overcast B-17 bomber (known as the Flying Fortress)will be at Lost Nation Municipal Airport from Sept. 6-8. The public can purchase tickets for this once-in-a-lifetime flight experience.