Take a spin in a B-17 bomber

BETHALTO -- World War II aviation enthusiasts have the chance to see -- and even take a ride in -- an airplane that did a lot of the heavy lifting during that era.

A restored B-17 "Flying Fortress" bomber is on display through Thursday at the St. Louis Regional Airport in the Metro East community of Bethalto.

The aluminum-plated plane, named "Sentimental Journey," is one of just 14 B-17s that still fly.

B-17s flew thousands of missions deep into enemy territory in Europe and every other theater of the war.

Tours of the plane on display in Bethalto cost $5, with 45-minute flights available to anyone at least 18 years old for $425.

The plane belongs to the Arizona Wing of the Commemorative Air Force.