Flyover Spectacular: Celebrating 85 Years of General Aviation Over the National Mall
Flyover Spectacular: Celebrating 85 Years of General Aviation Over the National Mall
Experience the thrill as General Aviation soars over the iconic National Mall in a tribute to 85 years of flight.
On Saturday, May 11, 2024, a large-scale flyover organized by the Frederick-based Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) will take place over the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The event, which coincides with AOPA’s 85th anniversary, aims to showcase the numerous contributions the general aviation industry has made to the nation since 1939.
Temporary Ground Stop at National Airport
The flyover, expected to bring some air traffic at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport to a temporary ground stop, will feature 56 aircraft representing various chapters of general aviation history. Two dozen groups of general aviation aircraft will fly from Frederick, Maryland, down the Potomac River, and across the National Mall between noon and 1 p.m. During this time, the airport will be under a ground stop, but officials stress that there is no cause for alarm.
The aircraft, ranging from a Beechcraft biplane to a Douglas DC-3 airliner, will fly over one of Washington’s most restricted flight zones, Prohibited Area P-56. Spectators on the ground and online will have the opportunity to watch the aircraft fly above the Lincoln Memorial, down Independence Avenue, and past the Washington Monument.
Meticulous Planning and Coordination
The flyover has been in the works for more than a year, with AOPA working closely with officials from the FAA, TSA, and Secret Service to ensure the route, airspace, aircraft, and pilots meet all necessary requirements. AOPA Vice President of Airports and State Advocacy Mike Ginter expressed gratitude for the support from these partner agencies and the final approval for the event.
Pilots were specifically selected based on their aircraft and level of pilot qualification, and all aircraft will be inspected by the relevant agencies prior to departure. Additionally, all pilots and crews were required to pass a security screening to participate in the flyover.
Celebrating General Aviation's Contributions
The flyover will feature 15 different “chapters,” each representing a significant aspect of general aviation history in the United States. These chapters include the Golden Age, World War II, the general aviation trainer era, vertical flight, backcountry flying, seaplanes, corporate and business aviation, technically advanced aircraft, homebuilt aircraft, airshow performers, and other examples of general aviation aircraft that support public service missions.
The event aims to celebrate the value the general aviation industry has provided to the nation since 1939. For those unable to attend in person, the flyover will be livestreamed on YouTube, allowing aviation enthusiasts across the country to witness this historic event.