The Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum will host its annual “Innovations in Flight” outdoor display at the museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia, Saturday, June 13, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visitors can view over 60 vintage, modern and commercial aircraft that will fly in for the day and be on display outside the museum. In addition to a large group of civilian aircraft, this year’s event is scheduled to include several helicopters, military aircraft and a commercial airline jet. For the first time at “Innovations in Flight,” an air racer that is flying in will be accepted into the museum’s collection at the conclusion of the event. Free passes are required to view the outdoor display and can be reserved on the museum’s website beginning Thursday, May 14, at 7 p.m.
“Innovations in Flight Outdoor Aviation Display” will explore the engineering and design achievements of the past century of flight. Visitors can talk with pilots and explore the aircraft cockpits and cabins. Inside, as part of the museum’s “Soar Together at Air and Space” family day series, visitors can meet innovators in flight, learn about using drones, see a music performance and more. Passes are not required to visit or participate in the activities inside the museum.
“Innovations in Flight” is made possible through the support of United Airlines. “Soar Together” is made possible through the support of Northrop Grumman. To learn more about the museum and “Innovations in Flight,” visit the museum’s website.
“Innovations in Flight” is one of the museum’s most popular events of the year and draws large crowds. While the Udvar-Hazy Center has parking available, public transportation is also available via Fairfax Connector’s 983 bus, which includes a stop at the Innovation Center Metro station. Schedules, route and fare information are available on the Fairfax County website.
The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is located in Chantilly, Virginia, near Washington Dulles International Airport and is open every day except Dec. 25 from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Admission is free, timed-entry passes are not required for regular indoor visitation, and parking is $15. The National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., is located at Jefferson Drive between Fourth and Seventh streets S.W. and is open every day except Dec. 25 from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Admission is free, but timed-entry passes are required to visit.