Contact your local television station or newspaper about upcoming opportunities to ride a B-52 bomber. These media organizations often receive press releases in advance regarding air shows, tours and special exhibits at which you may be able to see a B-52 up close.
Call an aviation museum in your area to see if they know of any B-52 flights in the near future.
Call a local air force base for information. Typically, the military will not offer rides to civilians on aircraft still actively used by its forces. If you are lucky enough to know a military pilot, he or she may be able to get you special clearance for a flight.
Visit a local aviation museum to see a B-52 bomber on display. Places like the U.S. Air Force Academy also have B-52s on display on its campus.
Take a virtual ride on a B-52 bomber. A simple Internet search can generate several hits for a B-52 simulator. Visit PlaneSimulation.com for information on free downloads.
Settle for a ride on a different type of U.S. military bomber. Even though the B-52 is still in service, several other bombers have been retired. The Collings Foundation sponsors the annual "Wings Of Freedom" tour, which brings aviation enthusiasts up close with B-17, B-21 and P-51 military planes. Rides start at $325 per person. Call to see when the tour is coming to your area, or to make a reservation.
