World War II · Heavy bomber
The Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress was one of the principal heavy bombers used by the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II. Alongside the B-24 Liberator, it formed a major part of the strategic bombing force in Europe. Its missions required coordinated work by pilots, navigators, bombardiers, radio operators, and gunners.
The preserved B-17F Memphis Belle provides a concrete link to that history. Its restoration at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force culminated in public display in 2018. Looking at a surviving bomber reveals the relationship between crew stations, defensive positions, and the space devoted to carrying bombs.
What to look for
- Four radial engines distributed across a broad wing
- A glazed nose and multiple crew positions
- Defensive gun installations around the airframe