The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is entering 2025 with one of its busiest and most important schedules in recent memory, solidifying its role as the world's leading organization dedicated to preserving and operating World War II-era warbirds. As of late 2025, the organization continues its mission to educate, inspire, and honor veterans through the powerful medium of flight and living history, managing a massive fleet of over 170 aircraft across more than 80 unique units, known as Wings and Squadrons, worldwide.
This year is marked by major milestones, including significant anniversaries, the highly anticipated return of their flagship aircraft to the skies, and a renewed focus on educational outreach to inspire the next generation of aviators and historians. The freshest updates for 2025 reveal critical tour dates, exciting new program initiatives, and the status of some of the most complex aircraft restoration projects in the aviation world.
The 2025 AirPower History Tour and Warbird Reunions
The centerpiece of the CAF's outreach effort is the annual AirPower History Tour, which brings the sights, sounds, and stories of World War II to communities across the United States. This mobile museum allows the public to experience history up close, often including cockpit tours and flights aboard legendary aircraft.
B-29 Superfortress "FIFI" Schedule Update
The star of the tour and the world's only flying Boeing B-29 Superfortress, "FIFI," is the main draw for millions of aviation enthusiasts. The CAF B-29/B-24 Squadron announced an updated 2025 AirPower History Tour schedule, with the start of the tour being slightly delayed.
Key 2025 "FIFI" appearances include:
- EAA AirVenture Oshkosh Reunion: The most significant event for any warbird fan in 2025 will be the reunion of "FIFI" and the other flying B-29, "Doc," at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. "FIFI" is scheduled to be on display from July 21-23.
- Tulsa, Oklahoma: The AirPower History Tour is scheduled to land at the Tulsa Air and Space Museum from September 4–8, offering a rare opportunity to see the heavy bomber up close.
- Roswell, New Mexico: "FIFI" is also slated to attend the National Championship Air Races at the Roswell Air Center from September 10th-14th, 2025.
The tour features other iconic aircraft alongside the B-29, such as the B-24 Liberator, a staple of the B-29/B-24 Squadron, ensuring a comprehensive World War II bomber experience.
Major CAF Airshows and Anniversary Celebrations in 2025
Beyond the AirPower Tour, several CAF Wings and Squadrons host major airshows and festivals that draw massive crowds, often marking historical anniversaries with special flyovers and performances.
1. CAF Airbase Georgia's VE Day 80th Anniversary
A major commemorative event for 2025 is the 80th Anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day. CAF Airbase Georgia is hosting a special event on May 10, 2025, at the Atlanta Regional Airport (Falcon Field) in Peachtree City, GA, to honor this pivotal moment in history. This event will feature a unique fleet of World War II-era warbirds celebrating the end of the war in Europe.
2. Aviation Discovery Fest (Dallas Executive Airport)
The third annual Aviation Discovery Fest is a key educational event scheduled for October 3–4, 2025, at the Dallas Executive Airport. This festival is specifically designed to engage the next generation, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore aviation careers and interact with the historic aircraft. This event directly supports the CAF's mission to educate and inspire.
3. 33rd Annual Bluebonnet Airshow
The Highland Lakes Squadron of the Commemorative Air Force will host its 33rd Annual Bluebonnet Airshow on March 15, 2025. This long-running event showcases the dedication of local CAF units and provides an early-season opportunity for the public to see classic warbirds in flight.
Restoration Projects and Organizational Initiatives for 2025
The preservation of these flying artifacts is a constant, monumental task. The CAF’s work often involves ground-up restorations that take years, and 2025 sees major updates on several high-profile projects.
Grumman F8F Bearcat Restoration
The Commemorative Air Force Southern California Wing at the Camarillo Airport is continuing its comprehensive ground-up restoration of a Grumman F8F Bearcat. This project, which began in 2018, is a testament to the dedication required to return a complex fighter aircraft to flying condition. An update on the restoration was scheduled for September 13, 2025, indicating significant progress is being made.
The "12 Planes of Christmas" Campaign
The annual "12 Planes of Christmas" fundraising campaign is crucial for supporting the maintenance and restoration of the CAF's extensive fleet. The 2025 edition marks the 10th year of this holiday fundraiser, which supports various aircraft, from trainers to heavy bombers. The campaign is vital for keeping these historic planes flying and ensuring the organization's financial health.
In January 2025, the CAF announced the successful totals for the 2024 campaign, demonstrating the ongoing commitment of members and donors to the mission of preserving aviation history.
New Non-Profit Support Initiative
In a move to broaden its impact, the CAF announced a new initiative in January 2025 designed to support other non-profit organizations. This program leverages the CAF's resources and platform to assist groups with similar educational or historical missions, further cementing the organization's role as a leader in the non-profit heritage sector.
The Enduring Mission: Honor, Educate, Inspire
The Commemorative Air Force, originally known as the Confederate Air Force before its name change, is headquartered in Dallas, Texas, and operates as a non-profit organization.
The core mission remains a powerful three-part directive: to honor history, educate the public, and inspire the next generation of aviators and mechanics.
By maintaining and flying these powerful World War II-era aircraft, the CAF provides a tangible, visceral link to the past that simply cannot be replicated in a static museum setting. The thunderous roar of a radial engine and the sight of a B-29 Superfortress overhead are living history lessons that connect modern audiences with the sacrifices and technological achievements of the Greatest Generation.
The 2025 calendar, filled with major airshows, critical restoration updates, and the return of the AirPower History Tour, proves that the CAF is not just preserving history—it is actively bringing it to life for millions of people. Whether you are an enthusiast, a veteran, or simply curious, the Commemorative Air Force’s events are a must-see in the coming year.
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