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WEYERS CAVE, VA (Rocktown Now) — To celebrate America 250, the Capital Wing of the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) will present a Warbird Expo and Fly-In featuring several World War II-era aircraft at Shenandoah Valley Airport (SHD) for two days only, Saturday and Sunday, May 16–17.
The event will be open to the public from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day, with free parking and free admission. Warbird rides are available for an additional fee. Shenandoah Valley Airport is located at 77 Aviation Circle in Weyers Cave.
Warbirds scheduled to appear include a TBM Avenger torpedo bomber, Boeing PT-17 Stearman open-cockpit biplane, Fairchild UC-61 Forwarder, and the rare Stinson OY-1.
Warbird rides will be available to the public, offering aviation enthusiasts and history lovers a chance to experience these historic aircraft firsthand.
Due to the limited number of available flights, attendees are encouraged to purchase rides in advance through the Capital Wing website. Any unsold rides will be available for purchase in person during the event.
“For many people, flying in a warbird is a true bucket-list item, a rare chance to step into the past and experience these historic aircraft,” said Pete Ballard, event organizer for the Capital Wing in a release. “These aren’t museum pieces sitting behind ropes — they’re living pieces of our nation’s heritage. We’re excited to bring that experience to the Shenandoah Valley community and give people a chance to connect with the past in a way they’ll never forget.”
In addition to the flying warbirds, visitors can enjoy several aviation attractions on the airport ramp.
The Capital Wing will bring its rare Japanese Fuji LM-1 as a static display — one of only five still airworthy worldwide — while a local pilot will showcase the crowd-favorite ERCO Ercoupe, a classic two-seat aircraft known for its simple, spin-resistant handling.
The Capital Wing PX trailer will also offer military and aviation-themed merchandise for sale.
Food trucks will be on site each day.
“This event is a rare opportunity for our community to experience living history in a meaningful way,” said Heather Ream, director of marketing and communications for Shenandoah Valley Airport. “We’re excited to welcome these historic aircraft and the Capital Wing back to SHD for a second time. The response in 2024 was incredible, with families, aviation enthusiasts, and visitors from across the region coming out to enjoy the experience, and we’re looking forward to building on that momentum with an even larger turnout in 2026.”