Join Seattle’s 100 Year Celebration!
top dignitaries, aviation buffs, and Seattle-ites!
September 26, 27, 28, & 29
Featured Activities
Gather Around The Pilots
Gather around the pilots for breathtaking, hair raising tales! One-on-one chats with record-breaking, dare-devil pilots who achieved incredible feats. From North Pole to South Pole, around the world eastbound, around the world west bound, The Equator Journey, longest trial flying across all seven continents, these aviators have pushed the boundaries of flight. Hear tales of daring adventures and ingenious homebuilt aircraft. Nothing more fun!
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Harry R. Anderson, Ph.D. engineer/entrepreneur, is a top-notch adventure pilot who flew his Lancair Columbia 300 solo around the world twice! Once eastbound in 2011, then again westbound in 2019. He flew solo to 50 countries, 7 continents (2014), over the North Pole (Canada to Norway, 2018). He currently is on a voyage to sail solo to 7 continents. When this voyage is completed in January, 2025, he will become the first person to both fly and sail solo to all the continents.
He left his sailboat Phywave in South Africa and came home to meet you and to honor the First World Flight pilots who started the whole era in 1924. Pilot Website
Enjoy great conversations with pilot throughout the day!
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Carol Ann Garratt is a notable pilot known for her remarkable long-distance flying achievements. She gained recognition for her multiple around-the-world flights (2003, 2008 and 2011) in a Mooney M20J, a single-engine general aviation aircraft. Garratt’s most notable accomplishment came in December 2008 when she and co-pilot Carol Foy broke the previous world speed record for circumnavigating the globe, westbound, in her Mooney, completing the journey in 8 days, 12 hours, 18 minutes, and 53 seconds. This feat not only demonstrated her exceptional piloting skills but also showcased the capabilities of the Mooney M20J for long-distance flights. Garratt has used her aviation adventures to raise awareness and funds for ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) research (over $500,000 raised), inspired by her mother’s battle with the disease (and Carol Foy had a cousin with ALS). Her achievements have inspired many in the aviation community and beyond, highlighting the potential for general aviation aircraft in global adventures. Pilot Website
Enjoy great conversations with pilot throughout the day!
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Harelson is a world record breaker. In 2013, he broke the FAI official world record for a) Distance Class C1d (C1d means landplane, internal combustion engine, weight 1750-3000 kg) from Guam to Jacksonville, Florida. The record: Distance of 8,114 miles in 38 hours 39 minutes. b)In 2015 he broke a FAI record for Speed Over Both Poles with a speed of 70.29 km/hr (43.68 mph). c) In 2019, he broke Max Conrad's 58 year FAI class C1d record for Speed Around the World Westbound with a speed of 222.16 km/hr (138.04 mph).
He doesn’t just fly! Harrelson and Sue built the Lancair IV over a period of 8 years specifically for ultra long distance oceanic flights. In the "expedition configuration" (single seat) it is equipped with a total of 10 fuel tanks carrying 361 gallons. Pilot Website
Enjoy great conversations with pilot throughout the day!
In 2015, Adrian Eichhorn completed a solo flight from Virginia to Oregon via the North Pole in his 1962 Beechcraft P35. A former Army officer and nuclear advisor to President Clinton, Eichhorn later flew for various organisations including the FAA and NASA. He’s an accomplished pilot, flight instructor, and aircraft mechanic, recognized as the FAA’s National Aviation Maintenance Technician of the Year in 2016. For his polar flight, Eichhorn equipped his aircraft with advanced navigation systems. Pilot Website
Enjoy great conversations with pilot throughout the day!
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John Koehler has made a name for himself in the world of experimental aircraft by building a homebuilt RV-9A, modifying it extensively for long-distance flights. In 2018, Koehler successfully flew his RV-9A around the world. This solo circumnavigation was a significant feat considering the small aircraft size and limited range. Koehler crossed oceans and continents, successfully demonstrating both his piloting skills and the capabilities of homebuilt aircraft. He has continued to push boundaries and possibilities of small aircraft, achieving multiple world records in the “Speed Over a Recognized Course” category. Koehler’s passion for aviation and his willingness to take on challenging flights has inspired many in the experimental aircraft community. Pilot Website
Enjoy great conversations with pilot throughout the day!
Ed Galkin is known for his remarkable achievements in general aviation. He flew around the world (1991) iin “Buckeye”, his Cessna 210 Centurian, a single engine aircraft modified with extra fuel tanks to extend its range for long-distance flights. Galkin’s global circumnavigation was an impressive feat, demonstrating both his piloting skills and the capabilities of the Bonanza aircraft. His journey showcased the potential for private pilots to undertake ambitious long-distance flights, inspiring others in the aviation community. Galkin’s adventure with his Bonanza highlighted the reliability and versatility of this popular general aviation aircraft for extended missions. More Info
Enjoy great conversations with pilot throughout the day!
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Pilot Patrick Elliott and his wife, Linda Walker, are a couple known for their long-distance flying adventures. Their achievements highlight the potential for general aviation aircraft in international travel and have inspired other pilots to pursue ambitious long-distance flights. Their journey in the Burt Rutan designed Long-EZ demonstrates the reliability and versatility of this popular aircraft model for challenging missions. They are representing Dick Rutan and Mike Melvill whose global circumnavigations in 1997 and Hans Georg Schmid in 2000 showcased the capabilities of the Long-EZ (Homebuilt) aircraft for extended journeys. Pilot Website
Enjoy great conversations with pilots throughout the day!
Vintage Planes
Titillating story tellers will regale you with details of the vintage planes you will never forget! Ogle this remarkable collection of vintage aircraft. From Piper Apache helicopter to a Bellanca Skyrocket, each aircraft tells a unique story. Why was it built? What makes it unique and different? Who flew? Where? Aircraft includes:
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Aircraft Info
Known as the “Yellow Peril” in WWII, the Boeing Stearman set the record for only solo, open cockpit flight around the world.
Aircraft Info
The original Cesna 180 was first flown by American pilot, Geraldine “Jerrie” Mock, the first woman to fly solo around the world, 1964, the year after Kennedy was shot. Mock launched March 19, 1964, flew 23,103 miles in 29 days, 11 hours & 59 minutes, and landed at Port Columbus Airport, Ohio, on April 17, 1964. Wikipedia
The Cessna 180 is nicknamed “Skywagon” because it is a 4-seat or 6-seat, fixed conventional gear generated aviation airplane. It was produced between 1953 & 1981.
Aircraft Info
Clifford Evans and George Truman circled the globe in their Pipers in 1947, the first time it had been done by light personal aircraft. The most popular aircraft for bush pilots!
Aircraft Info
Joan Merriam Smith became the second woman to complete a solo flight round-the-world, taking 56 days flying her Piper Apache in 1964. The Piper Apache is a twin-engine aircraft, so, at the same time, Smith became the first to fly a twin-engine aircraft around the world.
Aircraft Info
First plane to fly across the Pacific non-stop in 1931. This aircraft features a unique combination of wood, steel tube, and fabric construction.
A Day at NOAA
Take a fun loving romp through the greatest hits of band music the tradition-defying Sedentary Sousa plays! Most bands march; Sedentary Sousa refuses: They sit! Though firmly planted, they bring the vibrant sounds of John Philip Sousa to life. Experience the paradox of spirited marches performed by musicians who won't take a step, creating a memorable and unconventional musical spectacle.
The Navy Band Northwest
No event honoring the Pioneers of Flight would be complete without the spectacular 35-piece Navy Band Northwest. Your ears will perk and your heart will soar as the stirring sound of brass and percussion play big band and patriotic anthems. Not to be missed! (By the way, the musicians look spectacular in dress Navy uniform).
Sedentary Sousa Band
Take a fun loving romp through the greatest hits of band music played by the tradition-defying Sedentary Sousa Band! Most bands march; Sedentary Sousa refuses: They sit! Though firmly planted, they bring the vibrant sounds of John Philip Sousa to life. Experience the parade of spirted marches performed by musicians who won’t take a step, creating a memorable and unconventional musical spectacle.
Salute to the Pilots that Changed The World
Airshow / Fly-By Tribute to The First World Flight Pilots & Mechanics who forever changed the course of history and aviation. The Fly-By Spectators will witness adventure pilots and historic/vintage planes soar at 500 feet, demonstrating their agility and power. From Piper Super Cruiser to Piper Apache to a 1942 Stearman, each aircraft represents an important piece of aviation history. Today’s adventure pilots have come from all over the globe to honor this moment in history.
Vintage Model A Car Show
The Vintage Model A Car Show, feating an impressive collection Model As, the car of the era. Car enthusiasts will share stories about their prized possessions, offering insights into automotive history and the art of restoration.
Stand On History
‘Find the First AirStrip’ where the 4 Douglas World Cruisers took off on April 6, 1924. And, where 2 planes landed 175 days later, on September 28, 1924, created by a cheering crowd of 50,000.
The Sound Garden
Specifically sited to take advantage of the natural wind tunnel at Sand Point between Piers 15 & 17, was built by artist Douglas Hollis. This 27-foot-tall harp, with seven stretched strings, is strummed by the wind. It really sings between 2-3 o’clock when the wind picks up. Created by Friends of Magnuson Park.
NOAA Art & Trail Walk
National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration Western Regional Center. (WRC Campus). Lovely natural trails along Lake Washington Shore. Natural Habitat. Art works include:
“Knoll of NOAA”
“Viewpoint Terrace”
“Berth Haven”
“A Sound Garden”
“NOAA Bridge”
FIFI
The B-29 Superfortress is credited for playing the crucial role in ending World War II. This iconic bomber, one of only two flying B-29s left in the world is magnificent to see. Walk around. Look at it’s magnitude! HUGE! As a premium activity, FIFi is available for rides and open for cockpit tours. Step inside and let your imagine run wild. Imagine yourself piloting this massive aircraft during wartime missions.
Premium Experiences
Upgrade Your Experience with add-on for-a-fee experiences.Continue to check in, as experiences are being added.
Museum of Flight
The Exhibit of the First World Centennial is outdoors and free. Museum indoor activities, including docent tours & presentations require museum ticket.
The Swedish Club Dinner
Join the merriment and music, as we celebrate Aviation Hero Erik Nelson, the Swedish-born American Pilot, first to fly around the world. Nelson's grand-niece Dr. Lisa Whealy, Ph.D. Candidate, and grand nephew will tell never-before-heard family stories. They are the last living link to this integral part of history. Feast on mouthwatering Swedish 3-course dinner of Nelson’s favorite treats. The Honorary Consul of Sweden, Petra Hilleberg, will offer a toast, so raise a glass of complimentary champagne to toast in our hero’s honor. Tonight, we will have the pleasure of enjoying The Top of The Hill Barber Shop Quartet and the Savoy Swing Club Dancers perform The Charleston. Prepare to hop out of your seat, tap your feet and swing to the live band, all with the backdrop of the mesmerizing Seattle sunset. Dress code: Vintage Aviator, Roaring 20s, or whatever. Plenty of free parking.
Tickets required / PURCHASE
FIFI
The B-29 Superfortress is credited for playing the crucial role in ending World War II. This iconic bomber, one of only two flying B-29s left in the world, is available for rides and open for cockpit tours. Step inside and let your imagine run wild. Imagine yourself piloting this massive aircraft during wartime missions.
Book a ticket SOLD OUT
The Columbia Tower Club
The Columbia Tower Club is thrilled to be a partner in the upcoming First World Flight event on September 28th. This exciting event celebrates a remarkable piece of Seattle's history: the legendary tale of four brave pilots who, in 1924, set off from SandPoint in Seattle to become the first to circumnavigate the globe by air. Being a part of this celebration allows the Columbia Tower Club to honor the city’s rich aviation legacy and support an inspiring local story that resonates with Seattle’s spirit of innovation and exploration. We are honored to contribute to such a historic event and to help share the incredible achievement of these pioneering pilots with our community. So join us on Thursday, September 26th, from 4pm-6pm for happy hour with specialty cocktails inspired by the pilots to raise a glass and toast to one of our biggest local accomplishments!
Open to All | Register here.
Yes! I want to go!
For more information about the event, contact
