About us

We believe that by sharing personal experiences we gain insight and become better pilots. So we created this website where students, seasoned pilots, and everyone in-between can share their experiences with aviation in an easy to read, beautiful way. Our hope is that you will follow our site, read these heartfelt articles and continue to become the safest, most proficient pilot possible.

B-29 SuperFortress Fifi

B29 Superfortress 'Fifi' takes off

Recently, I had a chance to see a piece of history, the B-29 Superfortress Fifi.

3,970 Boeing B-29 SuperFortress  aircraft were built. They were an advanced long range bomber that went into service toward the end of World War II.  This was a 4 engine, propeller driven, pressurized aircraft with nearly 10,000 total horsepower. It was a B-29 SuperFortress that that carried out the atomic bomb attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The training for those attacks took place at the historic Wendover Airfield, only 120 miles from where I live.

This past weekend, the only flyable B-29 SuperFortress at present*, ‘Fifi’, was at the Salt Lake airport.  They were giving tours and rides. The B-29 Superfortress ‘Fifi’ is owned by the Commemorative Air Force. They have been touring the country with the B-29 Superfortress throughout the summer. They want to keep the memory of this magnificent aircraft alive. I took the opportunity to go out and shoot some photos of the B-29 Superfortress ‘Fifi‘ while it was here.

I am drawn to the roar of a radial engine. And if 4 of them, 2200 horsepower each, fly past, it gets my attention. The smoke, the noise, the huge props, the old aluminum.  It all creates emotion with me. This old B-29 Superfortress takes a lot of runway. It turns a lot of gas into a lot of noise, and climbs out slowly. It looks a little weird but is beautiful as can be. I am glad there are those who are dedicated to preserving this history.

B-29 Superfortress coming in for a landing.B29 SuperFortress landing at Salt Lake InternationalB29 SuperFortress taking offClose view of B29 SuperFortress engine

Subject: Aviation History – B29 SuperFortress

*Recently, I became aware of efforts to restore another B-29 Superfortress, Doc, into flying condition.  There are some promising photos and video on their website. I really, really hope this group is able to complete the restoration.  I’ve always thought it a shame that there was only one operational B-29 Superfortress left.  Especially given the fact that nearly four thousand of these incredible aircraft were built.

Jim Hoddenbach has channeled his dual passion for aviation and photography into two successful businesses and a lifetime of amazing memories. As an A&P IA Mechanic with 30 years of experience, Jim has provided decades of dependable, professional, and quality work through Aero Services to his fellow aviators at the Skypark Airport. Jim also founded Canyon Air Photo with fellow pilot and friend Steve Durtschi, providing their keen eye and amazing aerial photography skills for hire. Jim's excellent photography is often on display along with his engaging articles. A Certified Flight Instructor, Multi Engine Instructor, fixed wing and rotorcraft pilot, and husband and father, Jim never stops working to improve his life, and the lives of those around him. Jim is a true Disciple of Flight.