The nonprofit sends planes around the country for educational events. That's how ABC7 News reporter Wayne Freedman got to check out the same B-17 in 2010.
RELATED: WWII-era planes gives family chance to connect, remember
Freedman was there as a World War II veteran who piloted the planes during the war got to ride in a B-17 one more time, along with his sons.
The Collings Foundation put out a statement Wednesday saying they are cooperating with the investigation and their "thoughts and prayers" are with the crash victims.