Rare NASA WB-57 Formation Flight Over Houston

Shayla Silva

Monday, November 23, 2015 at 10:36 PM ET

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NASA

Key Takeaways:

The three remaining airworthy WB-57 airplanes conducted a historic formation flight over Houston, marking their first flight together since the 1970s.
Originating from NASA's Ellington Airport, the event showcased the unique aircraft and its high-altitude flight preparations, including a low pass for public viewing.
Originally developed from the English Electric Canberra as a tactical bomber, the WB-57 has exclusively flown research missions since the early 1960s, recently assisting during hurricane season.

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Last week in Houston the public got a rare treat as the last three airworthy WB-57 airplanes took to the skies for a historic photo flight. It was the first time they had flown together since the 1970s.

The three WB-57s took off from NASA’s Ellington Airport facility on Thursday for a formation flight around the greater Houston area. The event was to showcase the unique aircraft and how its crews prepare for their usual high altitude flights that are conducted above 55,000 feet. But crowds were treated to a much lower pass and were encouraged to take videos and photos to share on social media.