Year of Aviation

YOA

Did you know that the world's first pilot school was in Montgomery, AL near modern-day Maxwell Air Force Base? That Neil Armstrong carried a piece of the Wright Brothers' plane in the Lunar Module Eagle when he landed on the moon?

We’re celebrating the Year of Aviation as the U.S. Space & Rocket Center commemorates the 35th Anniversary of Aviation Challenge® and highlights our aviation collection. Many astronauts started their journey to space as test and fighter pilots. Our collection of 18 historic aircraft includes the A-12 Oxcart, comparably the Saturn V of aviation technology.

Come experience the rich aviation history of Alabama and the path of aviator to astronaut this year at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.

Activities included:

  • Aviation-themed STEM on stage throughout the year
  • An Aviation-themed Movie Series on the second Saturday of every month from February to September
  • Drone Day - September 13, 2025
  • Aviation Career Fair
  • Additional Special Events

More details posted in the coming weeks.