OXFORD, Conn. — A fleet of World War II aircraft is set to depart Connecticut for a historic journey to Normandy. The 2024 legacy tour aims to honor the 80th anniversary of D-Day and the 75th anniversary of the Berlin Airlift. The D-Day Squadron will fly across the Northern Atlantic, covering 3,000 nautical miles per plane over six days. Crews will commemorate the Allied invasion of France and the Berlin Airlift anniversary in Germany. National and international flight crews have meticulously prepared for the challenging transatlantic flight, retracing the historic wartime route. The aircraft, including transport planes used during the war, will carry emotional significance for those involved, reflecting on the sacrifices made by veterans.
As you fly these airplanes, your hands are on the same controls as those during World War II. It brings a lot of emotion to fly these historic aircraft, shared one pilot, highlighting the sentimental journey ahead. For crew members like Stephen Dybas, whose family has a strong military background, the tour is a personal tribute to veterans who served their country. As the fleet gears up to depart and participate in various events, the iconic aircraft will serve as a bridge to the past, reminding all of the bravery and sacrifices made by those in World War II.
