Fly into History: Ride WWII Warbirds and Meet the Last Flying SB2C Helldiver at West Houston Airport Near Bear Creek Park
On Saturday, May 17, the skies over West Houston will echo with the thunder of history as the Commemorative Air Force – Houston Wing opens its hangar doors for an unforgettable day of vintage aviation, warbird rides, and a guest appearance by the last flying SB2C Helldiver—a true icon of World War II combat aviation.
Known as the Hangar Hang Out and Warbird Rides Day, this living history event brings the stories of America’s wartime heroes roaring back to life—not from a museum bench, but from the cockpit of real, restored WWII aircraft that still take to the skies.
Whether you're an aviation enthusiast, a history lover, or simply searching for one of the most unique experiences in Houston, this is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to ride in a WWII warbird and witness a rare piece of military history in flight.
Step Inside a Flying Museum
Based at 18000 Groschke Road, Hangar B-5, the Houston Wing houses a collection of six historic aircraft, each meticulously maintained and flown to honor the men and women who built, flew, and supported them during the war. Available ride aircraft include:
- Lockheed C-60A Lodestar “Goodtime Gal”
- North American AT-6 Texan “Ace in the Hole”
- Consolidated-Vultee BT-13 Valiant
- Naval Aircraft Factory N3N “Yellow Peril”
- Fairchild PT-19A “Cornell”
- North American L17 Navion
Each flight offers an authentic, open-sky encounter with the past—passengers will feel the engine vibrations, hear the distinct growl of vintage propellers, and witness Greater Houston from a view that once belonged to wartime aviators. Flights can be booked at houstonwing.org. Prices vary by aircraft.
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A Rare Guest: The SB2C Helldiver
Perhaps the most exciting aspect of this month’s event is the appearance of the only airworthy Curtiss SB2C Helldiver left in the world. Often called the “Beast” for its size and power, the Helldiver was instrumental in the Pacific Theater, diving toward enemy targets with precision and force. Seeing one fly is extraordinary. Standing next to it? Unforgettable.
A Day of Free, Family-Friendly Exploration
Beyond the rides, the Hangar Hang Out is a free community open house held on the first and third Saturdays each month. Visitors of all ages can explore the hangar and museum, walk among historic planes, and speak with veterans and volunteers about the aircraft and the stories they represent.
There’s no admission fee, making this one of Houston’s best-kept secrets for families seeking meaningful and affordable weekend adventures.
Honoring Heroes, One Flight at a Time
The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) does more than preserve aircraft—it keeps the stories of WWII heroes alive through flight. With the rallying cry “Keep ’Em Flying,” the CAF believes the best way to honor the past is to maintain historic planes in flying condition and share them with the public.
The Houston Wing, based at West Houston Airport, began in 1978 as the West Houston Squadron with just three members and no aircraft. Over the years, it grew through dedication and restoration work—like rebuilding its first N3N biplane from spare airframes and eventually flying it eight years later. By 2012, it became a full Wing within the CAF and now boasts over 100 members and six assigned aircraft.
The Wing’s impact extends beyond the hangar. It co-founded the Wings Over Houston Airshow in 1985, now one of the country’s premier aviation events. Whether offering warbird rides, sharing artifacts in its museum, or inspiring younger generations, the Houston Wing lives its mission: to educate, inspire, and honor through living history.
Their aircraft are more than machines—they are time capsules, each with its own story of bravery, sacrifice, and innovation. And by keeping them aloft, the Houston Wing ensures those stories continue to resonate—across skies and across generations.
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Visitor Info and Requirements
To ride in one of the vintage aircraft:
- Passengers must be 12+ (with guardian consent if under 18)
- Must weigh under 250 lbs
- Must be able to board and exit unassisted
- Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled flight time.
If you can't make the May 17 event, don’t worry—the next Warbird Rides Day is set for July 19, 2025. For more information, including booking details, visit houstonwing.org.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
