Perched minutes from Colorado Springs Airport lies a restaurant that never needs runway clearance—because the centerpiece is a fully intact 1953 Boeing KC‑97 Stratofreighter, now converted into a dining cabin for up to 42 guests. Attached to a larger terminal seating ~275 total, The Airplane Restaurant delivers American diner food with serious aviation charm—without the tears from TSA lines.
The Unlikely Journey: From Sky to Table
How does a retired aircraft escape the scrapyard to become a dining haven? This KC‑97, used for refueling by the U.S. Air Force, was repurposed into a unique restaurant by Steve Kanatzar. Transported in pieces to Colorado, it was reassembled in 2002, offering diners a taste of history and adventure. The wings and nose have morphed into a cozy dining space, inviting guests to step inside an aviation relic. Unique aviation artifacts lining the walls enhance the historical ambiance, creating a truly immersive experience for visitors. It’s a testament to creativity and historical preservation.
Dining with a Cockpit View
Step inside the KC‑97 cabin where seven rows of vintage aircraft booths await. Under the glow of original fuselage lights, diners experience nostalgia and novelty. But the real showstopper is the cockpit access. Children and adults alike can play pilot, exploring non-functional gauges and sitting in authentic seats. The ambiance is accentuated by servers donning pilot-inspired attire, adding to the immersive charm. This dining experience combines an interactive journey through aviation history with delicious American comfort food. It’s a captivating setting that merges past and present, inviting patrons to be part of a one-of-a-kind narrative.
Savor the High-Altitude Menu
The menu at The Airplane Restaurant is as whimsical as its setting. With items like the BBQ Bomber Burger and Philly Flyer sandwich, the offerings pay homage to aviation while delighting taste buds. The comfort food lineup includes hearty steaks, pastas, and even vegetarian options. Jet-fuel-themed cocktails such as the Arctic‑B‑52 add a playful touch to the dining experience. Portions are generous and priced moderately, ensuring satisfaction. While the atmosphere is the star, the menu holds its own, providing a delicious mix of flavors and creativity, perfect for aviation enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
Plan Your Visit to The Airplane Restaurant
Visiting The Airplane Restaurant involves more than just dining; it’s about timing and planning. With limited seating inside the actual plane, reservations are recommended, especially for weekends and holidays. Located conveniently near the airport, it serves as a great stop for travelers. The atmosphere is family-friendly, with kids loving the cockpit and aviation artifacts. The restaurant welcomes guests daily, offering flexible hours except on major holidays. Ample parking makes access easy, and the nearby terminal offers additional seating when the plane fills up. A well-planned visit ensures a memorable experience at this unique destination.
Why This Restaurant Soars Above the Rest
In a sea of dining options, what makes The Airplane Restaurant take flight? It’s the singular opportunity in the U.S. to dine inside a genuine airplane cabin. Adjacent to Colorado Springs Airport, the restaurant’s visibility is unmistakable. Aviation enthusiasts revel in the memorabilia museum featuring flight logs and vintage uniforms. The combination of novelty and nostalgia captivates visitors, offering more than just a meal but an experience steeped in history. This restaurant isn’t just about food—it’s a journey through aviation’s golden age, attracting diners who appreciate both culinary and historical adventures.
