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

 National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC Plan Your Visit Related Topics: Aviation General aviation Interwar aviation Sports aviation African American or Black people Women Records and Firsts Society and Culture People 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 Cabin, "EXPLORER II" Object Piper J-2 Cub Object Flight Suit, Chauncey Spencer Object
Explore Even More About Pioneers of Flight Take a Closer Look at the Exhibition

Air and Space Quarterly Article

 Anne Morrow Lindbergh

Deep Dive

 Douglas World Cruiser Chicago

Object

 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