B-29 DOC returning to Inyokern and bringing P-51 Gunfighter
The B-29 DOC History Restored Tour will return to Inyokern Airport and the Indian Wells Valley, October 8-12. This year’s stop carries special meaning, as the iconic P-51 Mustang Gunfighter will join B-29 DOC at the very location where DOC’s remarkable restoration journey first began.
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“Inyokern, Ridgecrest, and China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station are extremely special to B-29 DOC and its legacy,” said B-29 DOC executive director Josh Wells. “This is where the epic story of DOC’s restoration began with the heroes who worked tirelessly to rescue the historic bomber from the bombing range and then built the vision that led to what DOC is today. Returning to the Indian Wells Valley and bringing P-51 Gunfighter with us for this tour stop gives people a unique opportunity to experience history up close and personal, while honoring the men and women who designed, built, and flew these warbirds during World War II.”
B-29 DOC first arrived at China Lake NAWS in 1956, when it was given to the U.S. Navy to serve as a target on the missile range. After more than four decades in the Mojave Desert, it was towed off the range by Tony Mazzolini and a team of volunteers from Inyokern and Ridgecrest and taken to Inyokern Airport. The bomber was returned to Wichita in 2000 and underwent a comprehensive restoration, which took over 16 years to complete. This will be DOC’s fourth return visit to Inyokern Airport since restoration.
B-29 DOC at Inyokern Airport
Joining DOC is the P-51 Mustang Gunfighter, one of the most celebrated fighter aircraft of World War II. Known for its speed, agility, and role in protecting bombers like the B-29 on missions deep into enemy territory, Gunfighter brings the story of airpower full circle — escort and bomber reunited once more in the skies. Both warbirds will be available for ride flight experiences while at Inyokern Airport. DOC will also be available for ground and cockpit tours when not flying. Gunfighter will be on static display on the ramp when not in flight.
“The pairing of these two legendary warbirds tells a powerful story — the bomber and the escort, side by side once again,” said P-51 Gunfighter pilot Jon Hullsiek. “When DOC and Gunfighter fly together, it’s not just history restored — it’s history alive. We’re proud to bring this living history to the community and to share the sights and sounds of freedom with a new generation.”
DOC will arrive at Inyokern Airport on Monday, October. 6. Public access will begin on Wednesday, October. 8 and run through Sunday, October 12. Gunfighter will arrive at Inyokern Airport on Thursday, October 9. Tickets for public ramp access will be $10 per person or $20 per family and can be purchased on the day of the event. Ride flight tickets for DOC and Gunfighter are on sale now: www.b29doc.com/rides and www.p51gunfighter.com/schedule.
Event Details for B-29 DOC and P-51 Gunfighter at Inyokern Airport
Public access will be granted through the main terminal at Inyokern Airport on the following days and times:
- Wednesday through Friday, Oct. 8-10: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (last ramp ticket sold at 3:30 p.m.)
- Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 11-12: 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. (last ramp ticket sold at 3:30 p.m.)
Tickets for public ramp access will be $10 per person or $20 per family and can be purchased on the day of the event. The schedule is subject to change due to aircraft flight schedules and weather. Updated scheduling information can be found via social media at www.x.com/b29docsfriends and at www.b29doc.com/inyokern.