Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress Liberty Belle

General Product Description

Our PlaneArts Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress Liberty Belle model exhibits unique, unrivaled quality and detailed design to come as close as possible to the accuracy of the actual plane. It comes as standard with a robust, durable base or stand which is available in a variety of different finishes designed to match your own personal requirements including solid wood, wood with polished metal supports or adjustable wood wall mount and will be ready within about 9-10 weeks from placement of order.

The Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress Liberty Belle model is made of the finest kiln dried renewable mahogany wood (commonly known as Lauan or Meranti) which has undergone many stages of carving and meticulous and careful sanding giving the beautiful, finished museum quality masterpiece. Many collectors and model connoisseurs demonstrate their preference for genuine handmade and hand painted mahogany wood models rather than plastic or die cast (diecast) alternatives due to the overall look and totally different feel of the item - we trust you will find the same. We can however, if required produce the same model in Solid Cast Resin so just click and contact us for further information. Our craftsmen and gifted artisans ensure that our finely handcrafted model airplanes match the precise blueprint details of the original aircraft. The paint scheme, markings and parts are closely matched, reflecting the original aircraft. This stylish top-quality desktop replica model will surely enthrall anyone who receives this as a gift and for sure one of the most appropriate and desirably collectable gifts for any military aviation enthusiast and avid aircraft collector whilst also displaying a perfect resemblance to the actual real life version.

There are many types of military propeller aircraft, but the basic types are bombers, fighters, fighter bombers, spotter planes, transporters, patrol aircraft, trainers, and reconnaissance and observation aircraft. All these types of aircraft are used for different types of missions. If you're a fan of historic or present-day military aviation, our model aircraft will bring the excitement and character of these aircraft right into your own home. You can order a wood airplane model of a North American B-25 Mitchell Bomber, a B17 - Flying Fortress, or a P-51 Mustang Nervous Energy V not forgetting the Bf 109, Spitfire, FW 190, A6M Zero, P-38 and F4U. These classic, propeller airplane models are of the highest quality. Each is individually crafted by our expert craftsmen. They produce handmade scale mahogany airplane models of the finest aircraft from World War I and II to present day biplanes and triplanes.

If you require, we can also make the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress Liberty Belle model in any other military, government or even private livery or colour scheme you require and if necessary, in a different size or scale. Just click here to contact us with a description or photographs of what you require, and we will let you have a quotation for the necessary customization by return email. We can also make bespoke scale replicas of any other private / civil commercial airliner or airliners, helicopter, glider, gliders with engines, military jet, warplane jets, biplane, triplane, tail fin, spacecraft, rocket or NASA model you require in any airline, military or civilian livery or colors. We also produce model airships, blimps, dirigibles, blimps, boats, and ship collectibles. Wall plaque or seal for military, government or private customers. Again, by clicking here to contact us just let us know exactly what you need.

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The Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress Liberty Belle: A Symbol of Resilience

The Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress is one of the most iconic aircraft of World War II, known for its durability, firepower, and the critical role it played during bombing missions over Europe. Among the many B-17s that served valiantly during the war, one particular aircraft gained attention long after the conflict ended—the Liberty Belle.

History of the Boeing B-17

The Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress was designed in the 1930s and became a fundamental part of the United States Army Air Forces’ strategic bombing campaigns during World War II. With its rugged construction, self-sealing fuel tanks, and multiple .50-caliber machine guns, the B-17 could endure heavy damage and still complete its missions. By the end of its production run, over 12,000 B-17s were built.

The Legacy of the Liberty Belle

The Liberty Belle is a B-17G, the last production model of the aircraft, built in 1945. This particular aircraft never saw combat during World War II, but it was part of the United States military’s inventory and later used as a test aircraft for Pratt & Whitney.

After its military service, the aircraft was sold to a private owner and used as a fire bomber to combat wildfires in the United States. In the 1970s, the plane was retired and eventually restored by the Liberty Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the legacy of the B-17 and educating the public about the service and sacrifices of World War II veterans.

Restoration and Flights

The painstaking restoration of the Liberty Belle began in the late 1990s. Over the course of several years, dedicated volunteers and aviation enthusiasts restored the aircraft to flying condition. By 2004, the aircraft was once again gracing the skies, serving as a flying museum and educational tool. It toured across the United States, offering the public an opportunity to experience history firsthand and remember the courage of the airmen who flew these bombers during wartime.

Tragic Incident

On June 13, 2011, tragedy struck when the Liberty Belle made an emergency landing in a cornfield near Oswego, Illinois, after an in-flight fire. Although all seven people on board escaped unharmed, the aircraft was engulfed in flames and was ultimately destroyed. The incident was a heartbreaking loss for the aviation community and history enthusiasts alike.

Legacy and Preservation

Although the Liberty Belle is gone, its legacy continues. The Liberty Foundation continues its mission to educate the public about World War II aviation and honor the sacrifices of those who served. The B-17 remains a powerful symbol of resilience, courage, and technological advancement, with several other B-17s still flying today as memorials to the Greatest Generation.

Conclusion

The story of the Liberty Belle is a testament to both the extraordinary engineering of the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress and the dedication of those who seek to preserve and honor history. Although it was tragically lost, its legacy as a symbol of American aviation history endures, reminding us of the past while inspiring future generations.

*All Boeing models are made under license by our sister company