Humans have dreamed of flying for thousands of years. National Aviation Day, on August 19, celebrates the history and achievements of aviation and honors the birthday of Orville Wright, who, with his brother Wilbur, made the first successful powered airplane flight. Today, millions of people fly every day, and aviation connects the world in ways the Wright brothers could only imagine.
History of National Aviation Day
Before airplanes, people experimented with kites, balloons and gliders. In 1783, the Montgolfier brothers launched the first crewed hot-air balloon flight in France.
Orville Wright was born on August 19, 1871, in Dayton, Ohio. He and his brother Wilbur ran a bicycle shop and became fascinated by flight. On December 17, 1903, near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, Orville piloted the first controlled, powered airplane flight, which lasted 12 seconds and covered 120 feet. They made three more flights that day.
Aviation grew rapidly. Charles Lindbergh flew solo across the Atlantic in 1927, and Amelia Earhart became the first woman to do so solo in 1932. In 1939, President Franklin D. Roosevelt proclaimed August 19 as National Aviation Day. Jet engines, commercial airlines and space flight followed.
Why National Aviation Day Matters
Aviation transformed travel, commerce and communication, making the world more connected.
It also inspires careers in science, engineering and piloting.
The Wright brothers' story shows how curiosity, persistence and experimentation can lead to world-changing innovations.
Aviation also plays a major role in the economy and in emergency response. Airplanes carry mail, medical supplies and cargo around the world, and helicopters and planes help fight wildfires, deliver aid after disasters and transport patients to hospitals. Pilots, mechanics and air traffic controllers keep this system running safely.
Flight also inspired people who were told they could not take part. Pioneers such as Bessie Coleman, Amelia Earhart and the Tuskegee Airmen overcame barriers of race and gender to become celebrated aviators. Their stories encourage young people of all backgrounds to pursue careers in the skies.
How to Celebrate National Aviation Day
- Visit an air museum: explore aircraft history.
- Build a model plane: try a glider or paper airplane.
- Watch planes: visit an airport viewing area.
- Learn about pioneers: read about Amelia Earhart, Bessie Coleman and others.
- Explore careers: learn about becoming a pilot or engineer.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, aviation and travel companies can celebrate their history; other teams can hold a paper airplane contest. In classrooms, students can learn about the four forces of flight, build gliders, or research aviation pioneers, including Bessie Coleman, the first African American woman to earn a pilot's license. At home, families can visit an air museum, watch planes take off, or build model aircraft. Look for local airshows.
Fun Facts About National Aviation Day
- Orville Wright was born on August 19, 1871.
- The first powered flight lasted 12 seconds.
- FDR proclaimed National Aviation Day in 1939.
National Aviation Day FAQs
When is National Aviation Day?
National Aviation Day is August 19.
Why August 19?
It's Orville Wright's birthday.
When was the first powered flight?
December 17, 1903.
Who proclaimed National Aviation Day?
President Franklin D. Roosevelt, in 1939.