1st of August, 2026
Join us for another exciting day at the Planes of Fame Air Museum this Saturday, August 1, 2026, where aviation history comes alive through flight, storytelling, and hands-on education.
This month's Flying Event features one of the rarest aircraft in the world—the Seversky 2PA, also known as the AT-12 Guardsman. As the last surviving example of its kind anywhere in the world, this remarkable aircraft has been part of the Planes of Fame collection for generations. Don't miss this rare opportunity to experience the sights and sounds of history as the Guardian comes to life—from engine start through its flight demonstration over the Museum.
Museum doors open at 9:00 a.m.
Regular Museum admission applies (Museum Members always receive free admission.)
Following the flight demonstration, join us in the Maloney Hangar beginning at 10:30 a.m. for four engaging Hangar Talk presentations celebrating the people, machines, and innovations that shaped aviation history.
Before there was a Stinson Aircraft Company, there was a determined young man who refused to let circumstance define his future.
Discover the remarkable life of Eddie Stinson, who left school as a teenager, became one of America's most accomplished pilots, established one of the nation's premier aircraft manufacturers, set aviation records, inspired a generation of pilots, and helped transform commercial aviation during its formative years. His story is one of determination, innovation, and the pioneering spirit that helped build American aviation.
What happens when two of aviation's greatest visionaries meet on stage?
Through a unique historical reenactment, Jackie Cochran and Alexander de Seversky return to tell the remarkable story of speed, innovation, and determination during aviation's Golden Age. Together, they'll explore the Bendix Trophy Race, the development of the groundbreaking Seversky 2PA, and the technological advances that forever changed aircraft design. Along the way, discover how Jackie Cochran shattered barriers in a male-dominated profession while proving that talent, determination, and courage know no boundaries.
Before there was NASA, there was NACA—the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics.
Part II of this fascinating series explores how America's engineers quietly transformed aviation through scientific research. Journey inside enormous wind tunnels, discover how turbochargers unlocked higher altitudes, learn how revolutionary airfoil research made aircraft faster and safer, and see how advances in aerodynamics and propulsion ushered in the jet age. This presentation reveals how careful experimentation and engineering excellence reshaped aviation and pushed the boundaries of flight.
"They can do it."
Those simple words became the motto of one of the most remarkable organizations in military history.
From the beaches of World War II to humanitarian missions around the globe today, the **United States Navy Construction Battalions—better known as the Seabees—**have built airfields, bridges, ports, roads, hospitals, and entire bases, often while under enemy fire. Learn how these extraordinary builders became combat engineers, helping secure victory in war while bringing hope during natural disasters and humanitarian crises around the world. It's the story of a unique military organization whose unofficial motto still says it best:
"Can Do!"
12:15 p.m. – Hot Ramp Area
One of the true treasures of the Planes of Fame Air Museum collection takes center stage this month.
The Seversky 2PA/AT-12 Guardsman is the last surviving aircraft of its type in the world—a rare link to one of aviation's most fascinating periods of innovation. Developed as the two-seat companion to the Seversky P-35 fighter, the aircraft represents the remarkable engineering that bridged the Golden Age of aviation and the dawn of modern military aircraft. The Seversky Aircraft Company would later become the legendary Republic Aviation, builder of famous aircraft such as the P-47 Thunderbolt.
Originally built for export, the Seversky 2PA found itself caught in world events. Between 1935 and 1939, Seversky delivered aircraft of this type to Japan, while Sweden ordered an additional fleet in 1940. Before that order could be completed, however, the United States placed an embargo on military aircraft exports. With only two aircraft delivered, the remaining fifty were purchased by the U.S. Army Air Corps and redesignated the AT-12 Guardsman. Rather than serving primarily as advanced trainers, many became fast, reliable transports for senior commanders throughout the early years of World War II.
Following a brief outdoor presentation, you'll experience this extraordinary aircraft exactly as it was meant to be experienced.
Stand just yards away as the 1,050-horsepower air-cooled radial engine comes to life directly in front of the crowd. Feel the unmistakable sound and vibration of one of aviation's rarest aircraft as it taxis to the runway before lifting gracefully into the Southern California sky for a 20-minute flight demonstration over the Museum.
When the flight concludes, the experience continues. Guests are invited to meet the pilot, view the aircraft up close, and ask questions about its history, restoration, and operation.
For aviation enthusiasts, this is more than a flight demonstration—it's a chance to witness a living piece of aviation history. Opportunities to see a Seversky 2PA/AT-12 fly are extraordinarily rare, and for many, this may be the only opportunity in a lifetime.
There's something for everyone at Planes of Fame Air Museum, so plan to spend the day exploring one of the world's premier collections of historic aircraft.
Throughout the day you'll enjoy:
After the Hangar Talks and Flying Event, continue exploring the Museum's remarkable collection at your own pace. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning to see an old favorite, there is always something new to discover.
The Museum is open from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., giving you plenty of time to enjoy a full day of aviation history, education, and family-friendly fun.
Whether you're a lifelong aviation enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a unique Saturday experience, Hangar Talk offers an unforgettable morning of living history, rare aircraft, and fascinating stories that celebrate the people who changed our world through aviation.
BECOME A MEMBER
