When is National Aviation Day?
In 2026, National Aviation Day falls on Wednesday, August 19, 2026. It is an observance rather than a federal holiday, so federal offices and most businesses follow their normal schedules.
History of National Aviation Day
President Franklin D. Roosevelt established National Aviation Day by proclamation in 1939. August 19 was chosen because it was the birthday of Orville Wright, who with his brother Wilbur completed the first controlled, sustained flight of a powered aircraft at Kitty Hawk in 1903.
The observance came during a period of rapid aviation growth, when flight was reshaping transportation, defense and public imagination. Today it includes the history of pilots and engineers as well as air traffic control, manufacturing, spaceflight and the many occupations that keep aviation operating.
Congress first authorized the president to designate August 19 through a joint resolution approved on May 11, 1939. Roosevelt’s Proclamation 2343 made the designation on July 25 and invited government offices to display the flag and Americans to hold exercises that would stimulate interest in aviation. The date honored Orville Wright, who was still alive at the time. It therefore began as a forward-looking aviation campaign as well as a commemoration of the Wright brothers.
How National Aviation Day is observed
National Aviation Day is not a federal holiday. Museums, airports, schools and aviation organizations may hold educational programs while normal schedules continue.
Traditions of National Aviation Day
Aviation museum visits
Museums display historic aircraft, engines, uniforms and flight technology. Special programs may include cockpit access, restoration demonstrations or talks with pilots.
Airport and air-show events
Some airports and aviation groups host open houses, flyovers or demonstrations. Events vary widely and depend on safety, weather and local operations.
STEM learning
Schools use the day for lessons on lift, navigation, engineering and aerospace careers. Model aircraft and flight simulators make the subject tangible for younger learners.
Dates and observance rules are checked against the official USAGov holiday and observance guidance. State, local, school and private-employer schedules may differ.
History sources: GovInfo: Proclamation 2343 establishing National Aviation Day, National Archives: the Wright brothers.
Continue exploring