Shannon Air Museum

06/09/2026

Another update from Shannon Air Museum is soaring into inboxes this week! ✈️

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06/02/2026

Coming soon! 

Did you know?

The 1909 Wright Military Flyer was the first military aircraft built for and accepted by any military in the world. Its creation came just one year after the tragic crash of the 1908 Wright Flyer at Fort Myer, Virginia, where a propeller failure caused a catastrophic accident that claimed the life of Lt. Thomas Selfridge, the first person to die in the crash of a powered aircraft. Orville Wright survived the accident with serious injuries.

From tragedy came perseverance, innovation, and success. The Wright brothers continued their work, ultimately delivering the 1909 Wright Military Flyer and helping launch the era of military aviation.

Coming soon to the Shannon Air Museum in Fredericksburg, Virginia, the Genesis of Flight Experience will immerse visitors in the incredible story of the Wright brothers and the birth of aviation. Explore the Wright bicycle shop, discover the evolution of their aircraft production, and experience the aircraft and innovations that changed the world forever. Along the way, visitors will also explore how mankind’s pursuit of flight reflects God’s design and purpose, as He gave man dominion over His creation and the ability to discover, develop, and responsibly use the laws of nature He established.

From the first flights at Kitty Hawk to the first transcontinental flight in the famous Wright Brothers Vin Fiz Flyer, you’ll journey through one of the greatest stories of innovation, determination, and the responsible exercise of God’s given dominion over creation.

Stay tuned as we prepare to open this exciting new experience and share the story of flight like never before!

05/25/2026

Today, we remember with gratitude the many brave Americans who have laid down their lives, not just for those they knew, but for all of us. Their sacrifice secures the freedom we enjoy every day.🇺🇸

05/22/2026

Thank you to the Chancellor Elementary 2nd Graders for bringing so much enthusiasm and so many great questions yesterday! You were great listeners, eager learners, and a joy to have with us at the Shannon Air Museum. ✈️👏

05/12/2026

04/30/2026

Wings Through Time ✈️

In 1911, aviation pioneer Calbraith Perry Rodgers made history in the Wright EX Vin Fiz—a modified Wright Brothers aircraft designed for endurance rather than short demonstration flights.

Originally developed by Wright brothers, these early airplanes were built with a lightweight wooden frame, fabric-covered wings, and a unique system of wing-warping for control. Powered by a modest engine, they represent the very first practical, controlled aircraft in history.

Backed by William Randolph Hearst, Rodgers attempted to win a $50,000 prize by flying coast to coast in 30 days. While he didn’t meet the deadline, he completed the journey in 49 days—overcoming crashes, constant repairs, and the limits of early aviation—to achieve the first transcontinental flight.

Nicknamed “Vin Fiz” after its grape soda sponsor, the aircraft proved that long-distance flight was possible, even with just 35 horsepower and fragile materials.

At the Shannon Air Museum’s Genesis of Flight Experience (coming soon), you won’t just see a “replica.” You’ll see exact reproductions—meticulously crafted so that every detail, from the fabric and stitching to the nuts and bolts, matches precisely how the Wrights originally built them. These aircraft offer an authentic, rare glimpse into the true beginnings of flight. ✈️✨

04/21/2026

Another update from the Shannon Air Museum is landing in inboxes soon—keep an eye out (and don’t forget to check that spam folder)!

We’re sharing some behind-the-scenes looks at the progress on the Genesis of Flight Experience, and you won’t want to miss it.

Be sure to subscribe if you haven’t already 👉 https://shannonairmuseum.com/e-newsletter-signup

04/17/2026

At the Shannon Air Museum, we’re dedicated to preserving the past and inspiring the future. Through unique aircraft and engaging exhibits, we bring to life the history of flight that shaped air travel around the world.

Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a lifelong aviation enthusiast, there’s something here for everyone. ✈

Guided tours are available Monday–Saturday, 10 AM–4 PM. Admission details can be found on our website.
📍 3380 Shannon Airport Circle, Fredericksburg, VA