Be a Pilot Family Day at the National Air & Space Museum June 16, 2007

Story and photography by Denise Decker

 

  For the third year in a row, the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum has hosted Family Day at the Steven F Udvar-Hazy Center near Dulles Airport on June 16. In addition to the museum’s extensive aircraft exhibits, there were many Discovery Stations and hands-on activities that allowed visitors to learn and experience, and several notable guest speakers. But the most unique aspect of this open house is the aircraft that fly-in for the day.

  After a short safety brief, visitors were given a wristband that allowed them out on the ramp behind the museum. Once outside, there was a hot-air balloon giving rides, gliders, ultralights, and many other general aviation aircraft on display, including John and Martha King’s Falcon 10 business jet. There was a row of helicopters, both civilian and military, as well as an assortment of military jets, from fighters to cargo and tankers.

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  Several airshow pilots also flew their aircraft in, allowing people a close-up look at planes that are usually on the hot ramp during an airshow. Jim Beasley and his son Jimmy brought their P-51 Mustang Bald Eagle, and Art Nalls flew down in his black L-39 Albatross. Ray Scott, from the Fighter Factory, brought in their P-40 Warhawk. The Marines from VMX-22 also brought an MV-22 Osprey.

  Those that stayed after the flightline closed were able to watch the aircraft start and taxi over to Dulles. Rwy 19L was in use, so most flew directly over the museum. It was like being at a private airshow.