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National Aviation Day celebrations
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
National Aviation Day on Aug. 19 marks Orville Wright's birthday. Communities and airports host events to celebrate aviation history.
Background
National Aviation Day is a federal observance established in 1939 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to celebrate the history and advancement of flight in the United States. The date, Aug. 19, was chosen to mark the birthday of Orville Wright, who with his brother Wilbur achieved the first successful airplane flights in 1903. Across the country, airports, museums, and communities hold events to honor aviation's past, present, and future.
How it unfolded
- 1939President Franklin D. Roosevelt established National Aviation Day as a federal observance.
- Aug 15, 2026West Michigan Regional Airport announced its Aviation Day open house scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 15, with free flights for kids, vintage aircraft rides, and other activities.
- Aug 17, 2026City of Chandler published a blog listing five ways to celebrate National Aviation Day, including visiting an aviation-themed park and dining at an airport cafe.
- Aug 18, 2026Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport announced its National Aviation Day activity from 1-3 p.m. on Aug. 19 in Terminal 4. Horsham's Wings of Freedom Aviation Museum also planned a celebration.
- Aug 19, 2026National Aviation Day is celebrated nationwide; Auburn University highlighted its training programs for future aviation professionals.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Phoenix Sky Harbor emphasizes its role as the largest economic engine in the state, with an annual economic impact of more than $44 billion.
- Public
- Chandler's blog encourages residents to 'look to the skies' and enjoy aviation-themed activities, from plane spotting to dining with a view.