MT. VERNON – Mt. Vernon Outland Airport has been selected as the Terminus host site for the 2026 Air Race Classic, marking a major milestone for both the airport and the community. The nationally recognized event will bring pilots, crews, aviation officials, and visitors from across the country to Mt. Vernon, making it the largest aviation event hosted at the airport since the 1973 Blue Angels air show.
The Air Race Classic is a prestigious, all-female piloted cross-country air race that traces its roots to the 1929 Women’s Air Derby. The modern race challenges teams to fly a multi-day route across the United States, testing accuracy, flight planning, and consistency rather than pure speed. The race concludes at the designated Terminus city, where pilots are welcomed and celebrated for their achievement. More information about the race is available at airraceclassic.org.
“Being selected as the Terminus for the Air Race Classic is a tremendous honor for Mt. Vernon Outland Airport,” said Chris Collins, Airport Manager. “This event puts our airport on a national stage and highlights the professionalism of our facilities and staff. It’s exciting to host an event of this scale and significance.”
Racers and race officials are expected to begin arriving on Thursday, June 25, 2026, and will remain in Mt. Vernon through Monday, June 29, participating in a variety of planned events, receptions, educational opportunities, and community activities throughout their stay.
“This is truly a community-wide opportunity,” said Sheila Jolly Scrivner, Host City Terminus Chair. “From aviation enthusiasts to families and local businesses, the Air Race Classic offers something for everyone, and we’re looking forward to showcasing Mt. Vernon’s hospitality and support for women in aviation.”
A public aviation celebration and youth activity day will be held on Saturday, June 27, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Mt. Vernon Outland Airport. Activities will include Young Eagle Flights for children, interactive aviation displays, educational opportunities, and additional family-friendly programming designed to inspire the next generation of pilots and aviation professionals.
Event organizers are actively seeking local, regional, and national sponsors to support the 2026 Air Race Classic Terminus and related activities. Sponsorship opportunities will offer businesses and organizations high-visibility exposure, community engagement, and alignment with a nationally respected aviation event that promotes education, skill, and opportunity for women pilots.
“This event will have a significant positive impact on tourism and the local economy,” said Angela Schrum, Tourism Director. “We’re excited to welcome racers and visitors from across the country and to highlight everything Mt. Vernon has to offer while celebrating a truly historic aviation event.”
Additional details, schedules, and sponsorship information will be released as planning continues.
About the Air Race Classic
The Air Race Classic is a nonprofit organization dedicated to encouraging and educating women pilots, increasing public awareness of general aviation, and honoring the legacy of women in aviation through an annual cross-country air race.
