Collecting flying warbirds for half a century, the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is the largest flying museum in the world. The CAF is a nonprofit aviation association dedicated to Honoring American Military Aviation through flight, exhibition and remembrance by maintaining a flying museum of classic military aircraft.

The CAF has more than 12,000 members and its fleet of 162 historic aircraft is distributed to 73 units located in 24 states for care and operation. These units, comprised of CAF members and volunteers, restore and operate the planes which are viewed by more than 10 million spectators annually.

More than just a collection of flyable warbirds, the Commemorative Air Force’s fleet of historic aircraft, known as the “Ghost Squadron,” recreate, remind and reinforce the lessons learned from the defining moments in American military aviation history. The demands of aerial combat drove the great technological advances in aviation that occurred during and after World War II. Many different types of aircraft were developed, often designed for very specific missions.

Members engage with the mission to protect these rare flying monuments to freedom. They keep them in flying condition, repair, rebuild and pilot these unique assets. Future generations will benefit from the CAF’s preservation efforts, educational programs, museum exhibits and airshows.

Aviation & Aerospace

Museums

Commemorative Air Force

Henry Coates (Hank)

Hank Coates

The Aviation Team at Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is responsible for maintaining, repairing, and piloting the fleet of 162 historic military aircraft. Comprising pilots, crew members, and engineers, this team ensures these flying warbirds are kept in excellent condition for airshows, educational programs, and exhibitions. Their efforts help preserve and honor American military aviation history, ensuring that the stories and technological advancements from defining moments are passed on to future generations.

Aviation Team

About

Team members

Other teams at Commemorative Air Force

Leadership Team

Aircraft Maintenance