UPDATE: 2nd Annual Heritage STOL Competition! NEW DATE September 6th, 2025 (Due to a deteriorating weather forecast for the upcoming weekend)
The rumble of powerful engines and the roar of propellers will once again fill the skies over the Military Aviation Museum as the 2nd Annual Heritage STOL Competition takes flight on Saturday, May 3rd, from 9 AM to 5 PM. Hosted in partnership with National STOL, this unique event blends high-performance flying with living history, creating an unforgettable experience for aviation fans of all ages.
STOL — short for Short Takeoff and Landing — is a style of flying that emphasizes precision, performance, and pilot skill. During the Heritage STOL Competition, pilots from across the country will push their aircraft to the limit, demonstrating their ability to take off and land in the shortest distances possible. It’s a test of airmanship, engineering, and nerves — and a thrill to witness from the ground. What makes this competition stand out is its historical backdrop. Held on the grounds of one of the world’s finest collections of vintage military aircraft, the event celebrates not only the capabilities of modern STOL aircraft but also their lineage. Many of today’s bush planes and STOL machines trace their roots back to rugged military designs that flew from short, unimproved strips during wartime. With National STOL’s collaboration, the Heritage Competition gives attendees a chance to see this evolution in action, with today’s pilots flying in the shadows of their military predecessors.
Admission to the event includes access to the Military Aviation Museum, home to a remarkable fleet of restored warbirds from World War I and II. Between STOL runs, visitors can explore the museum’s hangars, step back in time, and gain a deeper understanding of the origins of aviation in America. The Heritage STOL Competition promises to be a family-friendly day out, perfect for aviation enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Organizers recommend dressing for the weather — whether that means bringing hats and sunblock or jackets and rain gear — to make the most of the outdoor spectacle. Tickets are available HERE.
Whether you come for the thrilling flying or the historic surroundings, the Heritage STOL Competition offers a rare chance to experience aviation’s past and present in one unforgettable setting. Mark your calendar for May 3rd and get ready for an action-packed day at the Military Aviation Museum. To learn more about the STOL Competition, visit www.nationalstol.com. To learn more about the Military Aviation Museum, visit www.militaryaviationmuseum.org.
