The Sullenberger Aviation Museum in Charlotte, NC, is soaring to new heights after a remarkable transformation. Formerly known as the Carolinas Aviation Museum, this institution has undergone a complete metamorphosis, emerging as a cutting-edge facility that honors aviation's past while inspiring future generations. Founded in 1992 by aviation enthusiast Floyd Swinton Wilson and his wife Lois, the museum has evolved from a local attraction to a Smithsonian affiliate, expecting over 120,000 visitors annually when it reopens in summer 2024.
The museum's new mission extends beyond preserving aviation artifacts. It aims to ignite curiosity, foster innovation, and elevate STEM education while showcasing the incredible stories of human achievement in flight. From the iconic "Miracle on the Hudson" exhibit to interactive displays that put visitors in the pilot's seat, the Sullenberger Aviation Museum promises an immersive journey through the annals of aviation history and into the future of flight.
Highlights
- Home of the "Miracle on the Hudson" Flight 1549 aircraft
- Over 40 aircraft spanning 100 years of aviation history
- State-of-the-art interactive exhibits and flight simulators
Contents
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Here is Why Your Kids Will Find it Interesting
Sullenberger Aviation Museum is worth visiting with kids aged 6 to 16 fascinated by planes, space, and technology. The museum's hands-on exhibits and interactive displays cater to young minds, allowing them to explore the principles of flight and experience the thrill of piloting an aircraft through advanced simulators. Children can marvel at real planes up close, including the famous Airbus A320 from the "Miracle on the Hudson," sparking their imagination and possibly inspiring future careers in aviation or engineering.
Family-friendly features
- Interactive flight simulators suitable for various age groups
- Hands-on STEM activities in the maker space
- Kid-friendly guided tours and educational programs
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The Miracle on the Hudson Legacy
The centerpiece of the Sullenberger Aviation Museum is undoubtedly the Airbus A320-214 that Captain C.B. "Sully" Sullenberger successfully landed on the Hudson River on January 15, 2009. This extraordinary event, known as the "Miracle on the Hudson," saved all 155 lives on board US Airways Flight 1549 after a bird strike turned off both engines shortly after takeoff from LaGuardia Airport.
Visitors can now see this historic aircraft up close, preserved as a testament to human skill and courage. The exhibit showcases the plane and delves into the following NTSB investigation, offering a comprehensive look at one of the most remarkable events in aviation history. Captain Sullenberger has been involved in the museum's development, ensuring the story is told accurately and inspirationally.
At 8 km away is the Escape Tactic escape room, a visit to which both children and adults are sure to enjoy.
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Exploring the Museum's Exhibits
The Sullenberger Aviation Museum offers a diverse range of exhibits that cater to aviation enthusiasts of all ages:
Innovation Nation: The Main Gallery Experience This flagship exhibit takes visitors on a journey through aviation history, from the Wright brothers to modern aerospace technology. Interactive displays and augmented reality technology bring each aircraft's story to life, allowing visitors to piece together the journey of each plane from its active service to its place in the museum.
Interactive Displays and Flight Simulators Visitors can test their piloting skills on state-of-the-art flight simulators, offering an immersive experience that ranges from basic flight controls to more complex scenarios. These hands-on exhibits make the principles of flight tangible and exciting for all ages.
Historical Aircraft Collection The museum boasts an impressive collection of over 40 aircraft, including:
- The F-14 Tomcat featured in the movie "Top Gun"
- Vintage World War II aircraft
- Modern commercial and military planes
Each aircraft is meticulously preserved and presented with detailed information about its history and significance in aviation.
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STEM Education and Career Opportunities
The Sullenberger Aviation Museum goes beyond being a repository of aviation history; it's a launchpad for future innovators:
Makerspace for Hands-on Learning A dedicated makerspace allows visitors, especially students, to engage in hands-on STEM activities. This area is designed to foster creativity and problem-solving skills essential in aviation and engineering fields.
Partnerships with Local Schools and Organizations The museum collaborates with institutions like Harding University High School and the Queen City Robotics Alliance to provide students with unique learning opportunities. These partnerships aim to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world applications in aviation and technology.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals Through its exhibits and educational programs, the museum aims to encourage young visitors to pursue careers in aviation, aerospace engineering, and related STEM fields. The Aviation Society of Oral Histories, featuring stories from aviation pioneers like Air Force Major Tom 'Pinky' Funderburk, inspires aspiring aviators.
Visitor Experience
The Sullenberger Aviation Museum offers a comprehensive visitor experience designed to engage and educate:
Three Distinct Areas
- Welcome Center: Introduces visitors to the museum's mission and provides an overview of what to expect.
- Main Exhibit Hall: Houses the primary exhibits, including the "Miracle on the Hudson" display and interactive experiences.
- Historic Hangar: Showcases the museum's extensive aircraft collection in a more traditional museum setting.
Outdoor Plaza and Additional Attractions An outdoor area provides space for special events and additional exhibits, allowing visitors to enjoy aviation history in the open air.
Accessibility and Family-Friendly Features The museum is designed to be accessible to all visitors and has features that cater to families and individuals with diverse needs.
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Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Sullenberger Aviation Museum with children is during weekday mornings or early afternoons when crowds are typically smaller. Weekends can be busier but often feature special events and demonstrations. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Recommended Duration: Plan to spend 2-3 hours fully experiencing the exhibits and interactive displays.
Our Recap
The Sullenberger Aviation Museum offers a unique blend of history, technology, and inspiration. It honors aviation's past while looking to its future, making it an ideal destination for families, enthusiasts, and curious minds of all ages. With its state-of-the-art exhibits, educational programs, and the iconic "Miracle on the Hudson" aircraft, the museum provides an unforgettable experience that educates, entertains, and inspires.
