World War II history is coming to Knoxville with B-29 DOC & P-51 Gunfighter

March 17, 2026

The B-29 DOC History Restored Tour will land at Knoxville’s McGhee-Tyson Airport, May 7-10. The four-day tour stop will include two of the most iconic World War II-era aircraft: B-29 DOC and P-51 Mustang Gunfighter.

DOC is one of 1,644 Boeing B-29 Superfortress bombers built in Wichita, Kan., during World War II, and one of only two B-29 bombers still airworthy and flying today. P-51Gunfighter is a D Model Mustang, and one of less than 150 of the 15,000 manufactured during the war that remain.

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B-29 DOC and P-51 Gunfighter

Photo by Brett Schauf

“Seeing these two iconic warbirds on tour side by side is a powerful reminder of the skill, sacrifice and determination that defined the generation who designed, built, flew and maintained these machines,” said Josh Wells, B-29 DOC executive director. “History comes alive when people can get up close and personal with these warbirds and climb inside to learn more about the Greatest Generation. It showcases the superior airpower history of the United States and its allies during World War II.”

Both historic aircraft will be available for public tours, as well as ride flight experiences during the event in Knoxville.

“World War II shaped the course of modern history, and the aircraft that flew in those skies are powerful symbols of the people who served, sacrificed, and persevered,” said P-51 Gunfighter Pilot Pete Scholl. “By showcasing these historic warbirds today, we keep their stories alive—ensuring that future generations can see, hear, and feel the legacy of those who helped defend freedom.”

DOC and Gunfighter will arrive in Knoxville on Monday, May 4, and will be available for public ground and cockpit/ramp tours on Thursday and Friday, May 7 and 8, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. B-29 DOC Flight Experience Rides will be available Saturday and Sunday, May 9 and 10, at 9 and 10:30 a.m., followed by ground and cockpit tours from 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. both days. P-51 Gunfighter will be available for ride flights Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (May 8-10) and will be on static ramp display throughout the event when it is not flying. Ramp and cockpit tour admission will be $10 per person or $20 per family (tickets available at the gate the day of the event).

Ride flight tickets for both warbirds are on sale now: