The SR-71 Blackbird flew from 1964 until its retirement in 1999, serving as a reconnaissance aircraft during wartime. Designed to replace the U-2, the Blackbird was built to fly above detection ranges and move fast enough to outrun Soviet fighters and missiles. Throughout its entire service life, it was never shot down.
The aircraft also helped advance America’s understanding of aerospace and played a significant role in pushing the country forward during the Cold War.
SR-71 pilot Lt. Col. Don Watkins and crew chief Master Sgt. David Burns spoke about the unique experience of working with the aircraft, describing the kind of focus and respect it demanded.
“It’s a very powerful machine,” he said. “I mean it is very powerful. You gotta respect it and fly it. You don’t take one second looking out the window when you don’t have to. It was so pleasant just to sit in the cockpit and listen to it.”
The Blackbird has been on permanent display at the museum for more than a decade. Watkins and Burns will be available to speak with visitors through Saturday.
