A massive piece of aviation history is set to land at the Southwest Michigan Regional Airport August 12th through the 15th. One of America’s first mass-produced airliners, the Ford Tri-Motor, will be on display. It will offer flights and photo-ops for those interested in experiencing the energy, passion, and excitement of the Roaring ‘20s.
The Ford Tri-Motor, nicknamed the “Tin Goose” was designed specifically to provide another new market opportunity for Henry Ford’s Ford Motor Company in the post-World War I era. After realizing the potential for luxurious mass air transportation, Ford began produce the first three Tri-Motors featuring an open cockpit before transitioning over to enclosed cabins.
Southwest Michigan Regional Airport Executive Director Vincent Desjardins says, “Being able to bring a piece of history such as the Ford Tri-Motor to Southwest Michigan has been an on-going project for years. Our goal is to allow the general public a potential once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see and experience such an impactful part of our history that includes a direct Michigan connection, in person.”
Fly On The Ford is open to families, and will offer opportunities for rides on the Ford Tri-Motor Thursday from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.. Each flight will take approximately 30 minutes, 15 of which will be spent in the air. Passengers are required to remain seated while in the air, but each seat is located next to a window providing spectacular views of the Southwest Michigan scenery. Cameras are welcome and encouraged onboard.
Those interested in taking flight inside the Ford Tri-Motor can purchase tickets in advance – $72 per adult, $52 per child 17 and under at FlyTheFord.org or by calling 877-952-5395. Walk up tickets will be available for $77.
