“In the months ahead, we encourage you to join us in experiencing the wonders of aviation, explore its rich history and impact, and be inspired by the next generation of aviation pioneers.”

In a new video at faa.gov/America250, FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford extols our country’s aviation heritage and invites aviation enthusiasts of all ages to join us on the Flight Path to America’s 250th. Joining him is Christopher Browne, Director of the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum, as they kick off an inspiring journey through past, present, and future in American aviation.

The FAA’s Flight Path to America’s 250 campaign is part of the Administration’s effort to recognize the 250th anniversary of American Independence on July 4, 2026 and celebrate our nation’s history. 

Flight Path to America’s 250 will spotlight aviation’s greatest milestones—and its exciting future. From modernizing air traffic control and improving pilot training to safely bringing in drones, air taxis, and even supersonic passenger jets, the FAA has led the way in aviation safety and innovation.

Along the Flight Path, we will highlight the arc of aviation progress with help from aviation historians and take the campaign to the skies with visits to historic sites and museums across the country. We’ll also spotlight the FAA’s ongoing role in driving safety and enabling the innovations that are shaping the future of flight and the people behind it all—the dedicated FAA professionals who keep our skies safe every day. 

We’ll also be collaborating with the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum to recognize America’s aviation evolution. As the museum marks its 50th anniversary, also on July 1, 2026, it will unveil seven brand-new galleries at its Washington, D.C. location. Throughout the coming months, we encourage you to explore featured artifacts—many of which you can discover online through the museum’s digital offerings, whether you’re visiting in person or exploring from anywhere in the world. 

The American aviation system has greatly evolved since the first National Aviation Day on August 19,1939 and now encompasses global passenger aviation and a community that is redefining the possibilities of future flight. Given aviation’s enormous impact, there are many ways to celebrate with us. Here are a few suggestions.

Engage in hands-on aviation experiences.

• Take a flight, whether on a commercial or general aviation aircraft. 
• Take an introductory flight lesson. 
• Fly a radio-controlled airplane or recreational drone. 
• For pilots: take someone on a discovery flight. 
• For educators and students: utilize FAA developed resources for STEM activities.

Explore our aviation heritage.

• Explore aviation museums or historical aviation sites at such National Parks as the Wright Brothers National Memorial, Floyd Bennett Field and Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historic Park. 
• Visit your local library or download an aviation e-book. 
• Watch an aviation-themed movie or documentary.

Participate in community and online events. 

• Attend a local airshow or fly-in. 
• Join the conversation and share your celebrations on social media using #FlightPath250 
• Tell stories about your first flight or a special aviation experience. 
• Thank someone who works in the aviation industry. 
• Volunteer for an aviation organization.

Come fly through history with us! As we embark on the Flight Path to America’s 250th, we’re inviting the public to celebrate the incredible role aviation has played in shaping our nation—and to get inspired by what’s next. From legendary milestones to future breakthroughs, aviation has always been part of America’s story—and its future. 

Get cleared for take off at faa.gov/America250!