LOCAL AVIATION STORY SPOTLIGHT: Dream Flights honors local veterans with flights in historic biplane

On a late summer day this year at AVL, seven local military veterans took to the skies in a Boeing Stearman biplane built in 1940. The gentlemen, from Bella Vista Retirement, located in Asheville, took turns riding in the plane that is a piece of American history. The flights were about 20 minutes in duration and took the passengers around Asheville, including over the Biltmore House. The flight was an amazing opportunity for these brave veterans who served their country— and they were all smiles as they got to take their ride.

                The oldest was 95 years old and served in World War II. He had the honor of signing the tail of the aircraft.

                Dream Flights (formerly Ageless Aviation Dreams Foundation), is a national non-profit organization that offers flights to veterans around the country in Boeing Stearman biplanes. Founded in 2011, their mission is to “give back to those who gave.” They have volunteers and sponsors who work hard to make these dreams come true, which is exactly what they did for local veterans who live at Bella Vista Retirement.

                Jennifer Thompson, the activity coordinator at Bella Vista, said that it was amazing how well the staff from Ageless Aviation are able to get the participants in and out of the plane. She said that they really honor the veterans, and everyone is always very helpful and nice. She also gave a shoutout to Signature Aviation, the Fixed Base Operator at Asheville Regional Airport, for helping with the big day.

                The specific Stearman biplane flown in Asheville is used by the organization in the Eastern region of the US (there are 3 other planes that operate in other parts of the country). It was built in 1940 and was used by the army and was originally stationed at multiple locations in Missouri and California. It was purchased in 1946 by the organization’s founder’s grandfather for $1,500. The plane is a Boeing Stearman Model 75— specifically an A75N1(PT17). It has a Continental R-670 engine, which is listed as having a maximum speed of 124mph, with a cruising speed of 96mph. It’s estimated that as many as 10,600 Stearman Model 75s were built in the United Stated in the 1930s and 1940s.

                Everything about this story is amazing. The plane is a significant piece of American history that has been lovingly maintained by a family for generations, and now serves an important role in honoring veterans. The organization is a great example of what can be accomplished when you have a desire to make a positive impact. All of the volunteers from the various companies involved show that people are capable of coming together to make amazing things happen. But, of course, the most amazing part of the day was the honor shown to seven local veterans. They served their country and were able to receive not only a heartfelt thank you, but an amazing experience in the skies.

Dream Flights Website