The Arsenal of Democracy: WWII Victory Capitol Flyover

Dozens of vintage airplanes are slated to soar above National Mall and Southwest in what the display’s organizer is calling “one of the most diverse arrays of World War II aircraft ever assembled.”

Curtiss P-40 Warhawks, Douglas C-47 Skytrains and Boeing B-17 Flying Fortresses are expected to join other planes in 15 formations commemorating the attack on Pearl Harbor, D-Day and other major World War II battles.

“The Arsenal of Democracy: WWII Victory Capitol Flyover” will pass the Lincoln Memorial about 12:10 p.m., continue down the National Mall and then travel toward the Southwest waterfront.

The planes have received special approval from the Federal Aviation Administration to fly over normally restricted airspace.

“We are extremely grateful to the FAA for working with us so diligently to clear the airspace along the National Mall and allow the flyover to occur on the 70th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day,” the flyover’s executive committee said in a statement.

“The FAA has been a tremendous partner in allowing us to safely stage this historic event that recognizes the thousands of heroes fighting in the War and those on the home front who manufactured the tanks, ships and aircraft that enabled the United States and its Allies to achieve victory.”