In the 1920s and 30s, aviation pioneers pushed boundaries and blazed new trails in the air. 

The Barron Hilton Pioneers of Flight exhibition will celebrate this pivotal era of aviation with a vibrant new space that will feature iconic aircraft, personal stories that build connections with visitors, an expanded footprint for hands-on learning, and a stylish new eye-catching art deco design that includes full-size murals and projections.  

Learn about all the ways we're transforming the Museum. 

About Our Donors

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National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC
Plan Your Visit

Take a Look Inside the Gallery

Enjoy this artist's rendering depicting what the gallery will look like.

Bessie Coleman Amelia Earhart

In this Exhibition

Amelia Earhart's Lockheed Vega 5B

Object

Ryan NYP Spirit of St. Louis

Object

Curtiss R3C-2

Object

"Explorer II" Gondola

Object

Piper J-2 Cub

Object

Flight Suit, Chauncey Spencer

Object

Explore Even More About Pioneers of Flight

A olive flight suit ( a jumpsuit-like garment) with a fur collar and a white scarf, as well as tight fitting leather helmet and goggles stand against a black background.

Take a Closer Look at the Exhibition

Air and Space Quarterly Article

Anne Morrow Lindbergh wearing her Spaulding & Bros. leather helmet

Anne Morrow Lindbergh

Deep Dive

Green painted biplane with a yellow painted wing.

Douglas World Cruiser Chicago

Object

Open book spread of “Black Wings” with the page depicting aviator Bessie Coleman.

Book, Black Wings

Object

The Museum gratefully acknowledges those who have generously supported this gallery.

Barron Hilton/Conrad N. Hilton Foundation

Michael J. Weir and Mirian Graddick-Weir

Museum Transformation

Be the Spark

A major renovation is underway as we reimagine our galleries and presentation spaces in our iconic National Mall building in Washington, DC. Join us as we inspire a new generation of pioneers and explorers.

Learn About Our Transformation