B-29 DOC and WSU TECH Foundation Pull a Plane 2026 Event Rescheduled to October

The 2026 B-29 DOC and WSU TECH Foundation Pull a Plane event has been rescheduled to Saturday, October 17, 2026, due to ongoing engine maintenance that is affecting the readiness of B-29 DOC.

The event, which raises funds for WSU TECH student initiatives and B-29 DOC operations and sustainment, was previously rescheduled from March to April 19. Based on the maintenance schedule at that time, the April date was expected to allow sufficient time for the required work to be completed.

“Two of DOC’s four engines were removed from the airplane in November for inspection and sent to DOC’s engine manufacturer for repair,” said Josh Wells, B-29 DOC executive director. “With two engines removed, the aircraft has been unable to be moved out of the hangar due to changes in weight distribution and center of gravity.”

This was the primary factor in the event’s initial rescheduling from March to April. While repair work continues, the timeline for the engines to return to Wichita has shifted slightly, delaying installation by DOC’s maintenance team and impacting the team’s ability to safely move and prepare the aircraft for Pull a Plane.

“Maintaining DOC’s airworthiness is critical to preserving its legacy and ensuring it can continue flying for future generations,” Wells continued. “Engine maintenance of this scale requires time and precision. Our engine manufacturer has provided excellent service and has focused on these repairs. While we had anticipated being ready in April, the timeline for the engines to return to Wichita has changed, driving the decision to postpone the event to October.”

Since its inception in 2021, the Pull a Plane event has generated more than $600,000 to support both organizations while bringing the Wichita community together for a one-of-a-kind experience.

“At WSU Tech, our mission is to provide accessible, career-focused education, and events like Pull a Plane directly support that work,” said Courtney Sendall, WSU TECH Foundation executive director. “We’re grateful for the continued support of our sponsors, participants, and community as we work together to create opportunities for students and strengthen our region’s workforce.”

The event features teams of 25 people competing to pull B-29 DOC, an airworthy B-29 Superfortress, the fastest across 25 feet of concrete. Teams also compete to raise funds for the event.

Team and individual registration remain open via www.PullAPlane.com. A limited number of sponsorship opportunities are also available.

“Pull a Plane is more than a competition—it’s a reflection of Wichita’s aviation heritage and the community’s commitment to its future,” Wells said. “This event helps ensure DOC continues flying while also supporting the next generation of aviation and technical professionals. We are looking forward to hosting this event in the fall.”