Air & Space Museum

Republic RF-84K Thunderflash

Republic RF-84K Thunderflash

Republic modified its successful F-84 fighter into a swept-wing reconnaissance jet that could carry a variety of reconnaissance cameras behind optical glass windows in its nose.

In 1955 and 1956, the Air Force experimented with using large, long-range Convair B-36 bombers to carry small, fast RF-84K reconnaissance jets on long intercontinental missions. The bomber would release its RF-84K near enemy territory, the jet would dash in and take its photos, then rendezvous and hook onto the B-36 for the long ride home. (Air-to-air refueling was in its infancy, and the RF-84s could not make the long trips on their own.) The Strategic Air Command had 10 B-36 bombers and 25 RF-84s converted for the experimental Fighter Conveyor (FICON) program. Test flights demonstrated the FICON concept was “tactically sound”, but it was not suitable for normal operations. Even skilled test pilots had trouble hooking onto the trapeze extended below the B-36 while fighting the turbulent slipstream under the massive bomber. The testing revealed that the procedure was (just barely) feasible under ideal conditions, but would be nearly impossible at night or in poor weather. The program ended in 1956 as other solutions became more practical.

The airplane on display at Wings Over the Rockies is one of only three surviving RF-84Ks in the world. Built by Republic in September 1955 as a stock RF-84F, it was sent immediately to Beechcraft in Wichita, Kansas, for conversion into an RF-84K. Beechcraft installed the retractable hook-on equipment and the downward-angled horizontal tail that distinguished the special FICON aircraft, then performed test flights and turned the airplane over to the Air Force. In January 1956 it went to Larson AFB in Washington state and flew with the 71st Strategic Reconnaissance Wing until the end of the FICON program.

The Republic RF-84K is on loan from the National Museum of the US Air Force.

Aircraft specifications:
Wingspan: 38 ft 10 in (11.9 m)
Length: 37 ft 9 in (11.5 m)
Maximum speed: 581 mph (935 km/h)
Maximum weight: 15,100 lb (6,849 kg)
Range: 1,110 mi (1,786 km)
Crew: One
Engine: Wright J65 turbojet
Thrust: 7,220 lbf (32.1 kN)

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Upcoming Events

Saturday May 24
10:00AM TO 2:00PM
Exploration of Flight (Centennial Airport)

Vintage Showcase

Vintage Showcase
Saturday, May 24, 2025 | 10:00AM to 2:00PM

Take a step back in time at the Vintage Showcase at Exploration of Flight!

Join us for a showcase of vintage aircraft, classic cars and unique local vendors. Check out beautifully preserved planes including a 1958 Beechcraft BE95 Travel-Air, 1948 Luscombe and Wings’ own 1977 Varga 2150A Kachina with factory original paint and upholstery. Stroll among iconic cars like a 1953 Packard Caribbean, 1968 Chevy Chevelle SS, 1989 Volvo and more. Dress up in your favorite retro wear and shop for vintage treasures in the hangar from local vendors!

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Food Truck: Colorado Coney Company
Food is not included with admission.

Featured aircraft and vehicles are subject to change. 

Sunday Jun 1
12:00PM TO 5:00PM
Air & Space Museum

New Exhibit Opening: 2theXtreme

New Exhibit Opening: 2theXtreme
Sunday, Jun 1, 2025 | 12:00PM to 5:00PM

Our newest exhibit 2theXtreme opens on June 1!

This summer, experience 2theXtreme, a hands-on exhibit at Wings Over the Rockies™ Air & Space Museum! With 20 different interactive stations, discover how math powers the world around us – from skateboarding and Mars rovers to robotics and music. You can race a snowboard, drive a rover, create a 360° freeze-motion video and so much more. Perfect for curious minds of all ages, visit 2theXtreme and learn how math shapes our world and helps us soar!

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This high-energy, interactive exhibit is included in the price of admission and will be at the Air & Space Museum through September 7.

Friday Jun 6
10:00AM TO 8:00PM
Air & Space Museum

Evening at the Museum

Evening at the Museum
Friday, Jun 6, 2025 | 10:00AM to 8:00PM

Join us for an elevated experience during extended hours! The Air & Space Museum will stay open late until 8:00 p.m., giving you more time to explore our aircraft, exhibits and immersive experiences. Whether you’re heading over after work or looking for a unique evening out, this is your chance to experience the museum in a whole new light.

Don’t miss an exclusive deep dive into our brand new limited-time exhibit 2theXtreme! From 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., we will be joined by special guest presenters who will provide insights into how math helps us fly. Learn about thunderstorms and extreme weather from an expert working on cutting edge satellites, hear firsthand about soaring from a glider pilot and explore free fall with a skydiver.

Enjoy your night at the museum!

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Standard admission pricing applies. As always, admission is free for our members.

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