Sixty years after her record-setting flight, hear about the accomplishments and legacy of pilot Jerrie Mock.

On April 17, 1964, Geraldine “Jerrie” Mock made history by becoming the first woman to fly solo around the world in her single engine Cessna 180, known as the Spirit of Columbus. Join pilot Shaesta Waiz and publisher Wendy Hollinger as they discuss Mock’s legacy in aviation history and how she still inspires young female pilots today.

Shaesta Waiz is an Afghan-American aviator who completed a solo flight around the world in 2017. Jerrie Mock mentored her for the flight.

Wendy Hollinger is a graphic designer and aviation enthusiast who worked with Mock to republish Mock’s book about her around-the-world flight, Three-Eight Charlie, with supplemental archival material.


This program will be presented in-person at the National Air and Space Museum in DC and will be streamed live on YouTube. Registration is required for in person attendance and encouraged for online viewing.

ASL Interpretation will be provided and live captioning on YouTube. If you require another access service to fully participate or have any questions about accessibility, please contact NASMPublicLectures@si.edu. To ensure the best experience, please try to contact us at your earliest convenience. 

After the lecture, the Thomas W. Haas We All Fly exhibition will be open so attendees can view Jerrie Mock’s airplane, the Spirit of Columbus.

Aviation Aircraft General aviation People Women Records and Firsts
Sponsored by
GE Aerospace
How to attend

National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC

6th St. and Independence Ave SW. Washington, DC 20560

Registration is required for in person attendance.

Register to attend in person at the Museum in DC.

Online

Registration is encouraged for online viewing. Those who register will get a day-of reminder about the livestream.

Register to attend online.