Sullenberger Aviation Museum To Open Aviation City Exhibit in Historic 1936 Hangar

Inside a restored 1936 Works Progress Administration hangar, the Sullenberger Aviation Museum is getting ready to open Aviation City this spring. This new space will showcase Charlotte's amazing aviation history.

The museum's first year was a huge success. Over 70,000 visitors came through its doors, including 5,000 students on field trips. Next year's school visits are also already completely booked.

"Aviation has been one of the cornerstones of Charlotte's economic and social development, and it is a distinct honor as a museum to be able to breathe new life into the stories and artifacts of the past — like this storied hangar — to help continue to shape and inspire the innovators of tomorrow in Charlotte and beyond," said Stephen Saucier, Sullenberger Aviation Museum President, to AVWeb.

The centerpiece of Aviation City is an impressive 1942 Douglas DC-3. This plane began as a C-47 cargo plane for the U.S. Army Air Force before Piedmont Airlines bought and restored it in 1986.

The team is now getting other historic aircraft ready for display. Visitors will get to check out a beautiful Stearman biplane, a mighty Republic F-84 Thunderjet, a classic Bellanca 14-9 Cruisair, and a nimble Lockheed T-33 Shooting Star.

Two state-of-the-art flight simulators will let visitors experience what it's like to fly. One simulator is specially designed for wheelchair access, ensuring everyone gets a chance to fly.

The museum's third main exhibit space will tell the story of how a small southern town became a major aviation hub. Aviation City brings this history to life with interactive displays and unique artifacts.

The 1936 hangar, built during the Great Depression, connects today's visitors to the early days of Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Its historic walls have witnessed almost 90 years of aviation history.

When Aviation City opens, the museum expects to draw even more visitors. Through hands-on exhibits, the space shows how air travel transformed Charlotte into a booming business and transportation center.