National Aviation Day
National Aviation Day
National Aviation Day is observed each year on August 19 to celebrate the development of aviation in the United States. The date was chosen to honor the birthday of Orville Wright, one of the pioneers of powered flight. Established in 1939, the holiday reflects the nation’s appreciation for advancements in flight and the people who made them possible.
One lighthearted moment tied to the day happened in the early 1940s when schoolchildren were asked to write essays about aviation heroes—one student mistakenly wrote about Superman. The teacher decided to read it aloud anyway, giving the class a good laugh and reminding everyone how inspiring flight has become in American imagination. Since then, the holiday has become a time to reflect on both historical achievements and the ongoing spirit of innovation.
- National Aviation Day commemorates the birthday of Orville Wright, born on August 19, 1871.
- Orville Wright, along with his brother Wilbur, successfully launched the first controlled, sustained flight of a powered aircraft in 1903.
- President Franklin D. Roosevelt officially established National Aviation Day in 1939 to promote interest in aviation across the United States.
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