When one thinks of aviation, the first places that come to mind are usually major cities like New York or Los Angeles. However, the history of aviation in southeastern Washington is just as rich and fascinating. From early pioneers to modern advancements, this region has played a significant role in shaping the aviation industry.
The Early Days
The first recorded flight in southeastern Washington took place in 1911 when a pilot named Silas Christofferson flew his biplane over Walla Walla. This was just eight years after the Wright brothers' historic flight at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.Christofferson's flight sparked interest in aviation in the region, and soon after, the Walla Walla Aero Club was formed. In 1913, the Walla Walla Aero Club hosted its first air show, which drew a crowd of over 10,000 people. This event solidified the club's place in the history of aviation in southeastern Washington and helped to establish the region as a hub for aviation enthusiasts.
The Rise of Military Aviation
During World War II, southeastern Washington became an important location for military aviation. The U. S.Army Air Corps established several airfields in the region, including the Pasco Army Air Base and the Walla Walla Army Air Base. These bases were used for training pilots and crews for combat missions. One of the most significant contributions from this time was the development of the B-17 Flying Fortress bomber at the Boeing plant in Seattle. The B-17 was a crucial aircraft during World War II and played a significant role in the Allied victory. Many of these bombers were flown out of southeastern Washington airfields, making it an essential location for military aviation during this time.
The Birth of Commercial Aviation
After the war, the focus of aviation in southeastern Washington shifted to commercial flights.In 1946, the Pasco Airport was established, and it quickly became a major hub for air travel in the region. The airport was later renamed the Tri-Cities Airport and is still in operation today. In 1950, United Airlines began offering commercial flights out of the Tri-Cities Airport, making it the first airline to do so. This marked the beginning of commercial aviation in southeastern Washington and opened up new opportunities for travel and commerce in the region.
Modern Advancements
As technology advanced, so did aviation in southeastern Washington. In 1960, the Hanford Atomic Energy Commission built a nuclear-powered aircraft engine at the Hanford Site near Richland.This project was a joint effort between the U. Air Force and General Electric and was intended to create a more efficient and powerful engine for military aircraft. While this project was ultimately unsuccessful, it showcased the region's commitment to innovation and advancement in aviation technology. Today, southeastern Washington is home to several aerospace companies, including Boeing and Lockheed Martin, which continue to push the boundaries of aviation.
The Future of Aviation in Southeastern Washington
As we look to the future, it's clear that southeastern Washington will continue to play a significant role in aviation. The region is home to several airports, including the Tri-Cities Airport and Walla Walla Regional Airport, which provide essential services for both commercial and private flights. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones.Southeastern Washington is well-positioned to become a hub for UAV development and testing due to its wide-open spaces and existing aerospace infrastructure.
