New England Air Museum Open Cockpit

The New England Air Museum in Windsor Locks, Conn. has announced that it will hold its next Open Cockpit Day on Sunday, February 19. On that day, visitors will be permitted to climb into the cockpits of up to 12 vintage aircraft, a full-motion flight simulator and two static flight simulators.

The aircraft to be open include the famous Vought Corsair of WWII, the North American F-100 Super Sabre, a DC-3 airliner, several helicopters and more.  For the convenience of all, a food vendor will be on site serving sandwiches, snacks and hot & cold drinks. The event will be held inside the Museum’s three large, heated display hangars.

 In addition to the open cockpit program, numerous other activities are planned. 

There will be a program on the Tuskegee Airmen of WWII complete with exhibits, films and a guest appearance by Tuskegee Airman Connie Nappier who will be on hand from 11 AM – 1 PM.

In recognition of Black History Month, the Museum will present the Costen Cultural Exhibit – a unique collection of rare photographs, ephemera, memorabilia, fine art and collectibles.  The collection has been designed to show the contributions and accomplishments of Americans with an emphasis on African Americans throughout history.  Topics include slavery, civil rights, politics, inventions, science, athletics, aviation, military, movies, literary arts and more.

There will be a display of more than 250 vintage flying toys that were recently donated to the Museum by Peter Webber of Tolland, Conn.  The Museum’s Education Department will run activities for children.  Time Machine Hobbies of Manchester, Conn. will do demonstration flying of radio-controlled airplanes and helicopters.  Horizon Wings will be presenting three of their raptors a - Red-tailed hawk in honor of the Tuskegee Airmen, a Peregrine falcon and a Barn owl. Come meet these magnificent birds from 10 - 11:30 AM and learn about the elements of flight unique to each type of raptor.  Connecticut Hackerspace (www.cthackerspace.com) will demonstrate “do it yourself” build projects using common technology