COLUMBUS — Aviation enthusiasts and history buffs are invited to step inside military history this weekend as the Atterbury-Bakalar Air Museum hosts a free public open house on Saturday, July 11, 2026.
The highlight of the event will be open public access to tour the interior of the C-119 “City of Columbus” aircraft, also known as the “Flying Boxcar,” from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
The open house gives community members and visitors an up-close look at the iconic military transport plane, which played a major role during the post-WWII and Cold War eras when Bakalar Air Force Base served as a hub for troop carrier operations.
Volunteers will be on site during the event to answer questions, guide walkthroughs, and share insights into the aircraft’s restoration and operational history.
Event & Museum Hours
- Special Open House & C-119 Tour Hours: Saturday, July 11, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
- Location: Columbus Municipal Airport, 4742 Ray Boll Blvd., Columbus, IN 47203
- Admission: Free (Donations to support aircraft maintenance are welcome)
While the C-119 interior walkthrough runs until 1:00 p.m., the main Atterbury-Bakalar Air Museum facility remains open for regular Saturday operations until 4:00 p.m.
Regular museum operating hours are Thursday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to explore the museum’s indoor exhibits, which document the rich military history of the former Atterbury Army Air Field and Bakalar Air Force Base, including WWII glider pilot training, local veterans’ stories, and historical artifacts from the region.
