The Roar of History: Why You Can’t Miss the CAF Airbase Arizona in Mesa
For a truly unforgettable experience that goes far beyond a typical museum visit, look no further than the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Airbase Arizona. Located at the historic Falcon Field Airport in Mesa, this is more than just a collection of old planes—it’s a living, breathing testament to the power of American military aviation and the courage of the “Greatest Generation.”
While many museums display aircraft behind ropes, CAF Airbase Arizona is a vibrant, working facility where you can feel the thunder of engines, walk through hangars where these vintage warbirds are maintained, and even take to the sky in a piece of history. For aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, and families looking for a unique and inspiring outing, this museum is an absolute must-see.
A Journey Through Time: What Makes This Museum Unique
The CAF’s mission is simple: to acquire, restore, and fly historic military aircraft. The Arizona wing, which is one of the largest units in the world, executes this mission with stunning success. Their dedication to keeping these aircraft airworthy means you get an experience that is unmatched anywhere else in the Phoenix area.
- It’s a “Flying Museum”: Unlike other museums where the aircraft are static exhibits, many of the planes at CAF Airbase Arizona are fully operational. This means you have the chance to see them being prepped for flights, hear their powerful engines, and witness the incredible work of the volunteer mechanics who keep them in pristine condition.
- The Walk-In Maintenance Hangar: Step across “Bomber Alley” and into the working maintenance hangar. Here, you get a rare glimpse behind the scenes. You’ll see volunteer mechanics, many of them veterans, meticulously working on everything from engines to airframes. It’s an eye-opening look at the skill and dedication required to keep these historical artifacts in the air.
- The People Make the Place: The entire facility is run by volunteers—passionate pilots, knowledgeable docents, and dedicated mechanics. They are eager to share stories and answer questions, providing a personal connection to the history you’re exploring. It’s their enthusiasm that truly brings the museum to life.
Can’t-Miss Highlights at Airbase Arizona
While the entire museum is a treasure, there are a few standout exhibits and experiences that are particularly special.
- B-17 “Sentimental Journey”: This is the crown jewel of the collection. One of the few remaining airworthy B-17 Flying Fortresses in the world, “Sentimental Journey” is a magnificent sight. Visitors can often climb aboard and walk through the interior, getting a firsthand look at the cramped, exposed conditions faced by bomber crews in WWII. You’ll see handwritten signatures and stories of veterans who have visited, a truly poignant display of living history.
- Living History Flight Experience: This is the ultimate bucket list item for any aviation fan. The CAF Airbase Arizona offers the chance to take a flight in a variety of their warbirds. Imagine soaring over the Arizona desert in the bomb bay of a B-17 or a B-25, feeling the rumble of the engines and seeing the world from the perspective of a WWII airman. It’s an unforgettable and emotional experience that makes history tangible.
- Sacred Steel Exhibit: This powerful exhibit features a piece of the recovered hull from the USS Arizona, the battleship sunk at Pearl Harbor. Suspended in a frame, this “Sacred Steel” is a solemn and moving tribute to the 1,177 crewmen who lost their lives in the attack. It’s a humbling reminder of the immense sacrifices made that led to America’s entry into the war.
- A Diverse Fleet: Beyond the bombers, the museum’s collection is vast. You’ll find iconic aircraft from various eras, including a B-25 Mitchell bomber, a C-47 Skytrain cargo plane, and even foreign combat planes like a MiG-21. The exhibits are thoughtfully arranged to highlight different aspects of military aviation history, from the Tuskegee Airmen to the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP).
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Planning Your Trip to Mesa
CAF Airbase Arizona is conveniently located in Mesa, a short drive from Phoenix. Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or planning to spend the day, here are a few tips:
- Location: 2017 N. Greenfield Rd. Mesa, AZ 85215 (at Falcon Field Airport).
- Hours: The museum is typically open Wednesday through Sunday. Check their official website for the most current hours and any special events.
- Book Your Flight in Advance: If you’re interested in a “Living History Flight Experience,” be sure to book your spot online well in advance, as they fill up quickly.
- Check the Calendar: The museum hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including family days, speaker series, and seasonal festivals.
The Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum is a place of profound significance. It’s a destination that not only educates but also inspires, and it’s a testament to the fact that some stories are best told not in a book, but with the thrilling, echoing roar of a living machine.
Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum
2017 N Greenfield Rd
Mesa, AZ 85215
(480) 924-1940
https://www.azcaf.org/
