Air Force museum draws tourists to Dayton area

The National Museum of the United States Air Force is the world’s largest and oldest military air museum — and the crown jewel of the National Aviation Heritage Area.

Located on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, the museum’s four huge exhibit buildings and mis- sile gallery display more than 350 aerospace vehicles and missiles, not to mention thousands of historical aviation artifacts. While its exhibits range from the dawn of flight to cutting-edge aerospace technology, two recent additions include the iconic B-17F Memphis Belle and a gigantic Titan IVB space rocket.

The Air Force Museum Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, raises funds and awareness in support of the museum’s mission. Amenities it provides to the public include the six-story, 3D digital Air Force Museum Theatre, virtual reality and simulator rides, the Air Force Museum Store and two on-site cafés. The foundation also manages fundraising activities on behalf of the museum.

“The National Museum gives our organization and the region a unique edge in our efforts to attract tourism business,” said Jacquie Powell, president and chief executive of the Dayton Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Every Monday, the Dayton Daily News will feature the National Aviation Heritage Area. To learn more, visit aviationheritagearea.org.