Vintage Air Tours

In the age of modern aviation, where jets cut through the skies at unimaginable speeds, Vintage Air Tours takes passengers back to a time when flying was not just about getting from point A to point B, but an exhilarating adventure. Founded by Jeremy Bushnell, a passionate aviator and history enthusiast, Vintage Air Tours offers a unique blend of historical reverence and breathtaking aerial views, all from the cockpit of meticulously restored vintage aircraft. This company isn’t just about offering flights; it’s about reliving a golden era of aviation, where open cockpits, roaring engines, and endless horizons created a truly unforgettable experience.

The passion for aviation began at an early age. Fascinated by the history of flight, Bushnell was captivated by the beauty, simplicity, and raw power of vintage aircraft. Over the years, he became an avid collector of classic planes, particularly the biplanes that were once symbols of innovation and daring in the aviation world. His dream was to share his passion with others—not just by displaying these magnificent machines in a museum, but by offering the public a chance to experience what flying was like during the golden age of aviation.

A vision for Vintage Air Tours was clear from the start: create an aerial tourism company that would offer more than just scenic flights. Vintage Air Tours wanted to give people the opportunity to feel the wind in their hair, hear the roar of a radial engine, and marvel at the beauty of landscapes from a perspective that few today ever get to enjoy. Each flight would be a journey not only through the skies but through time, offering a deeper appreciation for aviation history and the pioneers who made it all possible.

At the heart of their company is its impressive fleet of aircraft, each one a flying museum piece, lovingly restored to its former glory. The crown jewel of the collection is a 1943 PT-17 Stearman biplane, once used for military flight training during World War II. This aircraft, with its distinctive yellow and blue paint scheme, is an icon of early aviation and a favorite among tour participants. The open cockpit allows passengers to experience flight in its purest form, without the barriers of modern technology or enclosed cabins.

Flights are also offered in other classic aircraft, each with its own unique history and character. The 1947 North American Navion was utilized in the Korean war, and is a rare example of incredible war-time engineering. Each aircraft has been carefully maintained and restored, ensuring that passengers can enjoy a safe yet authentic flight experience. For aviation enthusiasts, flying in these planes is like stepping into the pages of history, reliving the excitement of a bygone era.

A flight with Vintage Air Tours is unlike any other aerial tour. From the moment you arrive at the airport, you’re immediately transported to a different time. The sound of vintage engines revving up, the sight of biplanes preparing for takeoff, and the feel of the old-fashioned leather flight helmet you’ll wear—everything about the experience is designed to immerse you in the past.

Before each flight, passengers are given a brief introduction to the history of their aircraft and the significance of the type of flight they are about to experience. Whether it’s a leisurely flight along the Texas coastline, offering sweeping views of Rockport, the Gulf of Mexico, and the surrounding landscapes, or an adventurous aerobatic ride that takes you through loops, rolls, and spins, each tour is paired with a professional flight instructor and perfectly tailored to create a memorable and thrilling experience.

For those interested in a more relaxed journey, the scenic tours are perfect. Passengers are treated to stunning views of the Texas coast, including the picturesque Aransas Bay, the iconic Fulton Mansion, and the vast expanses of natural beauty that make the region so special. These flights offer a unique perspective on the landscape, revealing the intricate patterns of marshlands, estuaries, and wildlife from above. It’s a peaceful, serene experience that brings a new appreciation for the area’s natural beauty.

On the other hand, for adrenaline junkies, the aerobatic flights are an unforgettable thrill. With Jeremy Bushnell himself often at the controls, passengers are taken through a series of aerobatic maneuvers that include loops, barrel rolls, and spins. These flights replicate the training exercises once performed by military pilots during World War II, giving participants a taste of what it was like to be in a dogfight or perform precision aerobatics in the skies.

While Vintage Air Tours is primarily an aerial tourism company, its mission goes beyond just offering flights. Bushnell’s passion for preserving aviation history is evident in every aspect of the company. The team at Vintage Air Tours is committed to educating the public about the rich heritage of aviation and the role that these historic planes played in shaping the world we live in today. Part of this mission involves working closely with local schools, historical societies, and aviation museums. Vintage Air Tours often hosts educational events, where children and adults alike can learn about the history of flight, the mechanics of vintage aircraft, and the brave pilots who flew them. These events are designed to inspire the next generation of aviators and aviation enthusiasts, keeping the spirit of early flight alive.

In addition to its educational efforts, Vintage Air Tours is also deeply involved in local aviation events, including airshows and community gatherings. One of the highlights is the “Biplanes and Breakfast” fundraiser, which brings together aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, and families for a day of flying, food, and fun. Hosted at the Aransas County Airport, this event not only celebrates the historical significance of the airport and the aircraft but also raises funds for important causes, including efforts to bring an airshow back to Rockport, Texas. The fundraiser has quickly become a beloved tradition, drawing people from all over to celebrate aviation in a truly unique setting.

For many of the guests who fly with Vintage Air Tours, the experience is more than just a sightseeing adventure—it’s a personal journey. Whether it’s a veteran reliving memories of their service days, an aviation enthusiast checking a dream flight off their bucket list, or a family bonding over the thrill of flight, each passenger brings their own story. For Bushnell and his team, these personal connections are what make the company so special.
The flights often become emotional experiences, as passengers recall the stories of relatives who fought in World War II, or even flew similar planes during the conflict. Many veterans have taken flights with Vintage Air Tours as a way to reconnect with their past, sharing their stories with younger generations and reflecting on the pivotal role that aviation played in their lives.

For others, the flights are about embracing adventure. It’s not every day that you get to fly in an open-cockpit biplane, feeling the wind whip past your face as you soar high above the ground. Vintage Air Tours offers the kind of thrill and excitement that few modern experiences can replicate. The combination of nostalgia, history, and raw aviation power makes it a truly unique adventure.

Vintage Air Tours is more than just a business; it’s a tribute to the history of aviation and a celebration of the joy of flight. For founder Jeremy Bushnell, it’s a way to share his passion for vintage aircraft with the world, offering people the chance to experience the thrill and wonder of flying as it was meant to be. Whether you’re a history buff, an aviation enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, a flight with Vintage Air Tours is an unforgettable journey through time and across the skies.