On February 27, 2025, the Tampa Bay Wing received its second aircraft from CAF HQ, an L-26B called Ike's Bird, part of a batch of six purchased for the White House. President Eisenhower used this 1955 Aero Commander aircraft for various short trips around Washington, D.C. Known to be a licensed pilot, he often flew this aircraft himself. Ike's Bird follows our first aircraft assignment accepted in May 2024, a Fairchild PT-19 named Precious.
The Tampa Bay Wing operates from Lakeland Linder International Airport, where our aircraft are hangered at Sun n Fun hangars. We plan to showcase our aircraft and take part in airshows and other events, offering the public rides in a former Air Force One aircraft.
Join the Tampa Bay Wing. In 2024, we were the fastest growing unit in the CAF. We grew by 49%! We are a group of aviation enthusiasts who help maintain these historic aircraft. You do not have to be an aircraft mechanic or pilot to join but have a desire to preserve and present the Tampa Bay Wing and CAF-HQ aircraft to the public. Get a close-up experience with our aircraft.