Historic 1930s Airliner added to Lake Cumberland Air Show

SOMERSET, KENTUCKY — Something BIG is coming to this year's event. The 1937 Douglas DC-3 "Flagship Detroit" will be on ground display during the 2022 Lake Cumberland Air Show. Don't miss this opportunity to see this iconic airplane up close and personal and even take a ride onboard this important piece of aviation history!

The Douglas DC-3 airliner is considered to be one of the most instrumental American aircraft. Serving as the world's oldest flying DC-3, "Flagship Detroit" was delivered to American Airlines in 1937 and flew as a scheduled air carrier up through 1947 on various air routes throughout the United States. "Flagship Detroit" was the 21st of 84 DC-3’s delivered to American Airlines, with this particular DC-3 serving as the executive transport for First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt on several occasions.

"Flagship Detroit" was restored as a flying tribute to American Airline employees and is flown by retired American Airlines pilots, who will appear in period-uniforms. "Flagship Detroit" has the honor of being the oldest flying DC-3 in the world today and is often seen at aerial events across the country. During the Lake Cumberland Air Show, the aircraft will be opened up for public tours and the Flagship Detroit Foundation will be selling memberships which include rides onboard this historic airplane.

Rides will be sold on-site during the air show and are on a first come, first served basis. These ride flights will take place prior and after the air show. You can learn more about ride flights on the Douglas DC-3 "Flagship Detroit" by visiting our rides page. The 2022 Lake Cumberland Air Show takes to the skies Saturday, September 17 at the Lake Cumberland Regional Airport in Somerset, KY. Gates open at 10am with performances starting at 12:30pm. For more information, a full list of aerial performers, and to buy tickets, visit lakecumberlandairshow.com

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