The Boeing B-17 is the bomber known by the nickname “Flying Fortress.”
The B-17 was a four-engine heavy bomber developed for the United States Army Air Corps during the 1930s. Boeing’s prototype first flew in 1935, and the production aircraft became notable for its high-mounted wing, multiple defensive gun positions, and ability to absorb significant battle damage.
The name “Flying Fortress” was popularized by a newspaper report about the prototype, which described the aircraft’s armament and unusual appearance. Boeing adopted the nickname, and it became permanently associated with the B-17.
The B-24 Liberator was another major American heavy bomber, while the B-29 Superfortress and B-52 Stratofortress were different Boeing designs from later periods. Those names can cause confusion, but only the B-17 carries “Flying Fortress.”