Intro
Discover the quirky charm of The Boneyard in Arizona, a one-of-a-kind attraction showcasing retired aircraft in a vast desert graveyard. Explore the fascinating history of aviation and witness the massive fleet of planes, including bombers, tankers, and commercial airliners, in this unique Air Force facility, a treasure trove for aviation enthusiasts and photographers.
Located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Arizona is home to a plethora of unique attractions that draw visitors from all over the world. One such attraction is the Pima Air & Space Museum's Boneyard, also known as the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG). This sprawling storage facility is a graveyard for retired military aircraft, and it's a must-visit destination for anyone interested in aviation, history, or simply something out of the ordinary.
The Boneyard, which covers over 2,600 acres of land, is the largest aircraft storage facility in the world. It's home to more than 4,000 aircraft, including fighter jets, bombers, transport planes, and even a few presidential planes. The facility has been in operation since the 1950s, and over the years, it has accumulated an incredible collection of aircraft from various branches of the US military. From the iconic B-29 bomber to the supersonic F-104 Starfighter, the Boneyard has it all.
History of the Boneyard
The Boneyard has a rich history that dates back to the post-World War II era. During this time, the US military began to accumulate a large number of aircraft, many of which were no longer needed. The Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona was chosen as the ideal location for a storage facility due to its dry desert climate, which helped to slow down the corrosion process. Over the years, the facility has undergone several expansions and renovations, and today, it's a vital part of the US military's logistics and maintenance operations.
Aircraft Storage and Maintenance
So, how do the aircraft end up in the Boneyard? When an aircraft is retired from service, it's typically flown to the Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, where it's stored in a controlled environment. The aircraft are then subjected to a process called " desert storage," which involves draining the fuel tanks, removing the engines, and applying a special coating to protect the aircraft from the elements. The aircraft are then stored in a way that allows them to be easily reactivated if needed.
Visiting the Boneyard
Visiting the Boneyard is a unique experience that offers a glimpse into the world of military aviation. The Pima Air & Space Museum offers guided tours of the facility, which include a bus tour of the Boneyard. During the tour, visitors can see up close some of the most iconic aircraft in history, including the B-29 bomber and the F-104 Starfighter. The museum also offers a self-guided tour of the Boneyard, which allows visitors to explore the facility at their own pace.
Tour Options
The Pima Air & Space Museum offers several tour options, including:
- The Boneyard Tour: This 1-hour guided tour takes visitors through the Boneyard, where they can see a wide range of aircraft up close.
- The AMARG Tour: This 2-hour guided tour takes visitors through the AMARG facility, where they can see the aircraft storage and maintenance operations up close.
- The Self-Guided Tour: This tour allows visitors to explore the Boneyard at their own pace.
Other Attractions in the Area
The Boneyard is located near the Pima Air & Space Museum, which is home to a vast collection of aircraft and spacecraft. Some of the other attractions in the area include:
- The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum: This museum showcases the natural history of the Sonoran Desert and features a wide range of exhibits, including a collection of aircraft.
- The Titan Missile Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history of the Titan II missile and features a guided tour of the missile silo.
- The Davis-Monthan Air Force Base: This air force base is home to the 355th Fighter Wing and offers a glimpse into the world of military aviation.
Accommodations and Dining
There are several hotels and restaurants in the area that cater to visitors to the Boneyard. Some of the top-rated hotels include:
- The Hotel Arizona Inn: This hotel is located near the Pima Air & Space Museum and offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities.
- The Embassy Suites by Hilton Tucson Downtown: This hotel is located in the heart of downtown Tucson and offers spacious suites and a range of amenities.
Some of the top-rated restaurants in the area include:
- The Cup Café: This café is located near the Pima Air & Space Museum and serves a range of coffee, pastries, and light meals.
- The No Anchovies Pizza: This pizza restaurant is located near the Davis-Monthan Air Force Base and serves a range of pizzas and Italian dishes.
Getting There
The Boneyard is located near the Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Arizona. The nearest airport is the Tucson International Airport (TUS), which is located about 10 miles from the Boneyard. Visitors can rent a car or take a taxi from the airport to the Boneyard.
Conclusion
The Boneyard is a unique attraction that offers a glimpse into the world of military aviation. With its vast collection of aircraft and spacecraft, it's a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, technology, or simply something out of the ordinary. Whether you're a seasoned aviation enthusiast or just looking for a unique experience, the Boneyard is an attraction that's sure to leave a lasting impression.
Boneyard Image Gallery
We hope you've enjoyed this article about the Boneyard in Arizona. Whether you're planning a trip to the area or just interested in learning more about this unique attraction, we're sure you'll find this article informative and helpful. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. We'd love to hear from you!