B-17 Startup Sequence and Flight From Inside

This no-frills video takes you inside one of World War II’s most iconic bombers – the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress. From engine start to shut down, you’ll experience what it’s really like to fly aboard this legendary aircraft, complete with the deep rumble of its four radial engines and the view from its narrow fuselage.

Filmed on April 13, 2012, the flight departs from Santa Fe, New Mexico, and arrives in Scottsdale, Arizona, offering a rare, authentic glimpse of history in motion. Around the 5:30 mark, keep an eye out for a P-51 Mustang briefly peeling away in formation. Both aircraft are part of the Collings Foundation’s historic collection, dedicated to preserving and flying these remarkable warbirds.

Just imagine how terrifying it must have been to fly this in combat- deep respect to those who did.

Do you think this video is exhilarating to watch from start-up to flight mode? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!