Soaring Through Time: Vintage Air Tours Brings History to Life in South Texas with Warbird Flight Experiences
- Jeremy Bushnell
- Mar 24
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 25
Ever dreamed of flying like the pioneers of aviation—wind in your hair, sun on your face, and the roar of a radial engine beneath you? At Vintage Air Tours, we make that dream a reality. Based in Rockport, Texas, we offer bucket-list open-cockpit flights in two meticulously maintained aircraft: our award winning 1943 Boeing Stearman and our sleek, post World War II-era North American U-18 Navion. These aren’t just airplane rides—they’re living history lessons that soar.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a history buff, or just someone looking to experience the Texas coast from a whole new perspective, our flights deliver unforgettable moments wrapped in old-school charm. Safety is our top priority—our pilots are highly experienced, and our aircraft are rigorously inspected and lovingly cared for. We're passionate about preserving the golden age of aviation and sharing that magic with you. Come fly with us on our warbird flight experiences, and let your spirit take wing above the sparkling coastlines of South Texas.
At Vintage Air Tours, we believe that flight should be more than just transportation—it should be a journey back in time. From the moment you step onto the tarmac at the historic Aransas County Airport, you’re stepping into history. Our mission is to bring the stories, spirit, and sights of classic aviation to life for locals and visitors across South Texas.
We proudly fly two incredible aircraft that represent different eras of American aviation:
The Boeing PT-17 Stearman – This open-cockpit biplane was a staple of World War II pilot training. Its rugged construction and nostalgic charm make it the perfect aircraft for sightseeing flights along the Texas coastline.
The North American U-18 Navion – This little-known airplane served in the Korean war as a liaison and utilitarian type aircraft. You would find the Navion transporting anything from supplies to special operations encampments or VIP's being flown around the Korean peninsula. With less than 1,000 still in airworthy condition, we offer a unique chance to get up close and learn the history behind this mostly forgotten piece of history.
We are not just a biplane ride tour business-Every flight includes stories of the planes, the pilots who flew them, and the rich aviation heritage of our region. Whether you're cruising low and slow over the bays or diving into gentle banks above the coast, you’re part of a living legacy.
Safety is at the heart of everything we do. Our aircraft undergo routine inspections and are maintained to the highest FAA standards. Our pilots are not only highly experienced but genuinely passionate about aviation history and guest experience.
Our goal is simple: to ignite a love of flight and history in everyone who climbs aboard. Whether you're celebrating a milestone, checking off a bucket-list item, or just craving a new perspective on the Texas skies, we invite you to come fly with us.