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August 19, 2026 | Dare County Regional Airport — Manteo, NC
AVi celebrated National Aviation Day at Dare County Regional Airport (MQI), bringing together aviation, community, and opportunities to inspire the next generation to discover the possibilities of flight.
On August 19, 2026 — National Aviation Day — Aviation Influence, Inc. (AVi) was honored to bring Take FLIGHT to Dare County Regional Airport (MQI) for a special celebration hosted by the First Flight Society.
There are few places more meaningful to celebrate aviation than the Outer Banks of North Carolina — where the Wright brothers made history and changed the world forever. For National Aviation Day, AVi brought our aircraft to MQI and exhibited alongside fellow members of the aviation community, creating an opportunity to connect with visitors, share our mission, and celebrate the people and possibilities that continue to move aviation forward. Throughout the day, our team connected with aviation enthusiasts, families, young people, and members of the local community — sharing not only our aircraft, but the work we do through Aviation Influence to inspire the next generation through STEAM and aviation outreach. Take FLIGHT is about creating opportunities to experience aviation firsthand, discover new possibilities, and help people see themselves as part of the future of flight. \
We’re grateful to the First Flight Society for including us in this special National Aviation Day celebration and to everyone who stopped by to learn more about our aircraft, our mission, and the opportunities aviation can create. From the first flight at Kitty Hawk to the next generation of aviators discovering their own flight path, the story of aviation is still being written. And we’re proud to be part of it.
In this recap:



National Aviation Day is a time to recognize the impact of aviation on our communities and inspire the next generation of pilots, engineers, innovators, and industry leaders. Aviation Influence was proud to celebrate this occasion at Dare County Regional Airport (MQI) in Manteo, North Carolina, bringing together aviation enthusiasts, families, students, volunteers, and community partners for a day centered around education, exploration, and opportunity.
Throughout the event, participants had the opportunity to get up close with aircraft, learn about aviation pathways, connect with industry professionals, and experience the excitement of flight firsthand. From discovery experiences on the ramp to conversations about aviation careers and STEM opportunities, the event provided meaningful exposure to the many possibilities available within the aviation industry.
National Aviation Day at MQI reflected Aviation Influence's mission of expanding access to aviation and STEM education while creating opportunities for young people to explore their interests, build confidence, and envision their futures. Events like these serve as an important reminder that a single flight, conversation, or experience can inspire a lifelong passion for learning and aviation.
We extend our gratitude to the airport staff, volunteers, community partners, pilots, and supporters whose dedication helped make the event possible. Their commitment to serving youth and fostering aviation awareness continues to create lasting impact throughout the communities we serve.
As Aviation Influence continues to grow, we remain committed to connecting young people with aviation experiences, mentorship opportunities, scholarships, educational resources, and industry connections that help turn curiosity into opportunity and dreams into achievable goals.
Take FLIGHT @ ACY has been postponed due to worsening weather conditions.
We are currently working with our partners, exhibitors and featured experiences to plan a new date for April 2027. The new date will be announced soon.
This is a postponement—not a cancellation.
We look forward to taking flight with you in 2027!
Our Silent Auction remains open through October 3, with proceeds supporting Aviation Influence scholarships.