What is the Centennial of Flight?

The Centennial of Flight is a national celebration commemorating 100 years of powered flight. In 1903, the Wright brothers achieved what man had dreamed about since the beginning of time. In 2003, events and activities will occur across the country to celebrate the achievements of the Wright brothers, those that occurred over the last 100 years and those that are yet to come. 2003 promises to be an exciting and inspiring year.

Where can I find historical information on aviation or space?

The U.S. Centennial of Flight Commission's Web site (www.centennialofflight.gov) is a great place to find comprehensive information on the Wright brothers, as well as the significant events that have occurred since 1903. Check out the "History of Flight" section. And, if you want more information, you'll also find links to other sites that house historical content on aviation and aerospace.

Do you have any comprehensive information on the Wright brothers?

Yes. The U.S. Centennial of Flight Commission's Web site offers a series of essays and articles covering the history of the Wright brothers, including their days as pressmen. You will also find archived pictures and films of their pioneering efforts, as well as links to the Internet's most credible Wright resources.

Do you have educational resources on the Wright brothers and/or aviation?

Yes. The U.S. Centennial of Flight Commission offers several educational resources, which can be found on its Web site. There are a series of interactive educational modules that show users how to fly a plane, as well as PDF files of educational posters. The Commission has also organized a comprehensive list of educational resources into a searchable matrix for students and teachers to explore. If you would like hard copies of some of the above-mentioned items, or are searching for educational information that cannot be found on the U.S. Centennial of Flight Web site, please call Debbie Gallaway at 202.358.1903 for more information.

Where can I find pictures of the Wright brothers' first flight?

The U.S. ... The Library of Congress has an extensive collection of Wright-related photography and film. You can access that Web catalog through the U.S. Centennial of Flight Commission Web site: www.centennialofflight.gov/media/collections.htm. Pictures can also be found on the Wright State University Web site: www.centennialofflight.gov/sights/collections2.htm.

What is going to happen in 2003 to celebrate the Centennial of Flight?

Many exciting events will take place throughout 2003. The U.S. Centennial of Flight Commission offers the most comprehensive calendar of centennial-related activities which can be found on the Internet at www.centennialofflight.gov/calendar_cf/calendar.cfm.

Does the original 1903 Wright Flyer still exist?

Yes. The original 1903 Wright Flyer is hanging in the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. While it is no longer flyable, several groups are creating either reproduction or replica models of the plane for celebrations in 2003. EAA's 1903 Wright Flyer reproduction will be flown at Kitty Hawk, N.C., on Dec. 17, 2003, exactly 100 years after the very first powered flight.

Why was the Commission created?

The U.S. Centennial of Flight Commission is charged by Congress with providing recommendations and advice to the President, Congress, and federal agencies on the most effective ways to encourage and promote national and international participation and sponsorships in commemoration of the centennial of powered flight by persons and entities. The Commission's responsibilities include generating publicity for the celebration, encouraging individuals and organizations across the country to conduct commemorative activities, offering recommendations to individuals and organizations conducting commemorative activities, and maintaining a Web site and a national calendar of events.

They are playing the leading role in coordinating and publicizing public activities celebrating the achievements of Wilbur and Orville Wright and commemorating a century of powered flight.

Who sits on the Commission?

The U.S. Centennial of Flight Commission is made up of six Commissioners mandated by Congressional law. Each brings his or her own dedication to the public appreciation of the legacy and promise of flight, as well as the enthusiasm of their respective member institutions. They include the director of the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum, the administrator of NASA, the president and CEO of the EAA, the administrator of the FAA, the president of the First Flight Centennial Foundation of North Carolina and the president of the Ohio centennial organization, Inventing Flight: Dayton 2003.

Is there a way that I can volunteer to help?

The U.S. Centennial of Flight Commission does have an interest in accepting assistance from volunteers. If you would like to volunteer services or goods to support the U.S. Centennial of Flight Commission, please call 202.358.1903.

Who supports the Commission?

The U.S. Centennial of Flight Commission receives its funding from the federal government. It is allowed to access additional funds through licensing of the Centennial of Flight logo.