WOW. Just, WOW.
On September 7, 2001, I flew in the radioman's position on the B17G, "Aluminum Overcast"
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aluminum_OvercastI was surprised at how compact and tight everything was inside. We had a full load of about 8 people plus pilot and co pilot. I was equally surprised at how easy it was to takeoff, on this gorgeous sunny day with a high pressure system. We took off from Willow Run airport, the place where the B24s were built by Ford Motor Company. I queried the pilot on the ease of takeoff, and he laughed. Basically he replied:
"In combat, the plane had a full load of fuel, a full complement of ammunition for the 13x .50 caliber machine guns, along with a full 4,000 pound bomb load, and ten crew members. To take off, they went to the far end of a runway, locked the brakes, ran the four engines up to full throttle, and when at their peak, let go of the brakes and prayed they'd take off. Not all did, and many crashed before take off in East Anglia." "today, with a light load of fuel, no ammo, no bombs, no guns, and a high pressure system, it's simple. Not so in wartime..." I said a prayer not that we'd take off, but for the brave men that didn't make it so many years earlier.
It was an experience I recommend for anyone so interested. There are a number of WWII era bombers that make tours in the summer. It's not cheap, but a thrill of a lifetime.
