Reaching New Heights in 2026

It is no surprise that Air Camp is located in Dayton, Ohio. Dayton is the birthplace of aviation. Wilbur and Orville Wright lived in Dayton, where they researched, developed, and built their airplanes. In 1903, the Wright brothers made history with the world’s first powered flight. However, it was their 1905 flight at Huffman Prairie, near Dayton, that transformed their breakthrough from a single moment into the creation of the first practical airplane. That achievement is what truly earned Dayton its title as the birthplace of aviation.

Dayton’s significance goes far beyond the Wright brothers. The city has a rich history of innovation and ingenuity. The mechanical cash register was perfected here, and Dayton played a leading role in the development of polymers and plastics. It is also where oxygen delivery systems, as well as G-force and altitude survival devices, were created. In addition, Dayton pioneered advanced business practices such as sales training, employee welfare programs, and modern marketing strategies. Even the city-manager form of government was developed in Dayton, Ohio.

Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (WPAFB) and the National Museum of the United States Air Force (NMUSAF) further define what makes Dayton so special. WPAFB is one of the most influential U.S. Air Force bases, with a focus on research and development, engineering, testing and evaluation, intelligence, and logistics and acquisition. Located on the grounds of WPAFB, the National Museum of the United States Air Force is one of the oldest and largest aviation museums in the world. With more than 19 acres of indoor exhibit space, the museum showcases the history of aviation from the earliest days of powered flight to some of the most advanced aircraft ever created.

Dayton stands at the center of aviation and innovation. Air Camp was meant to be in Dayton, Ohio. With nearly 40 partners throughout the Dayton area, Air Camp gives participants the opportunity to experience firsthand the people, places, and achievements that made Dayton the birthplace of aviation. So come reach new heights with Air Camp.

Dr. Jesse D. Steiner
Executive Director