B-29 Superfortress ‘DOC’ Tour & Flights Coming to Sioux Falls in 2026
A rare Boeing B-29 Superfortress bomber will be making a stop in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, in July 2026, offering a unique opportunity to experience a piece of World War II history. The B-29 DOC, one of only two airworthy examples of this iconic aircraft, will be at Sioux Falls Regional Airport from through .
The visit is timed to coincide with the Sioux Falls Power on the Prairie Airshow, scheduled for and . While the B-29 DOC will not be offering ground or cockpit tours during its stay, it will be providing ride flight opportunities for those wishing to experience what it was like to fly in this historic bomber. Tickets for these flights are currently available for purchase at www.b29doc.com/rides.
“Warbirds are more than just airplanes – they are living pieces of history that tell the story of our nation’s military and aviation legacies,” said Josh Wells, executive director of B-29 DOC. “The stories behind B-29 DOC and the men and women who designed, built and flew these warbirds to protect freedom are vitally important to preserving U.S. History. Air shows and aviation events like what will happen from to in Sioux Falls provide up-close and personal experiences with aviation that will unite families and inspire the next generation of aviators, while celebrating our nation’s history.”
The B-29 Superfortress played a crucial role in the final stages of World War II, most notably as the platform for the atomic bomb missions over Hiroshima, and Nagasaki. Its development and deployment represented a significant technological leap in aviation, and its presence in the skies during the war years was a symbol of American industrial might and strategic capability. Today, the remaining airworthy examples serve as powerful reminders of that era and the sacrifices made by those who served.
The Sioux Falls Power on the Prairie Airshow will also feature a diverse array of other aircraft, including the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, aircraft from the South Dakota Air National Guard, a Mig-17, a P-51 Mustang, a B-25, and a TBM Avenger. Rick Tupper, a spokesman for the airshow, emphasized the significance of the B-29 DOC’s arrival. “We’re thrilled to have B-29 DOC arrive ahead of Power on the Prairie 2026,” he said. “What we have is an incredible opportunity for our community to experience a living piece of World War II history while building excitement for an unforgettable airshow weekend.”
The B-29 DOC is scheduled to arrive in Sioux Falls on , with ride flights scheduled for and . Following its stop in Sioux Falls, the aircraft will continue its tour, heading to Minnesota. The tour aims to raise awareness of the aircraft’s history and the contributions of the men and women who served during World War II, as well as to generate excitement for the Sioux Falls Airshow.
The preservation of these historic aircraft is a complex undertaking, requiring significant financial resources and dedicated expertise. Organizations like Doc’s Friends, Inc., the group responsible for the restoration and operation of the B-29 DOC, rely on donations and sponsorships to keep these pieces of history flying. The ability to offer ride flights provides a crucial source of funding for ongoing maintenance and preservation efforts.
The B-29 DOC’s visit to Sioux Falls represents more than just an airshow attraction; it’s a chance to connect with a pivotal moment in history and to honor the legacy of those who shaped the world we live in today. For many, it will be a rare opportunity to witness a living artifact of the Second World War and to gain a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made during that conflict.