July 25, 2025
“More than 120 years ago, the Wright brothers pioneered their aviation work and built the world’s first airplane in Dayton. I’m proud to support efforts that keep Dayton Aviation Heritage National Park showcasing its accomplishments and sharing Ohio’s rich history with visitors from our state and across the world.”
WASHINGTON – Sens. Jon Husted (R-Ohio) and Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) today introduced legislation that would expand the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park. Reps. Mike Turner (R-Ohio) and Greg Landsman (D-Ohio) introduced the companion bill in the House of Representatives.
“More than 120 years ago, the Wright brothers pioneered their aviation work and built the world’s first airplane in Dayton. I’m proud to support efforts that keep Dayton Aviation Heritage National Park showcasing its accomplishments and sharing Ohio’s rich history with visitors from our state and across the world,” said Husted.
“Ohio is the birthplace of aviation, and the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park is a testament to our state’s heritage. This park serves communities in Southwest Ohio and brings tourism to our state, and I’m proud to support this expansion,” said Moreno.
“Ohio’s rich aviation history, first displayed by the Wright Brothers in 1903, is showcased in the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park. By expanding the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park, we make certain that this monument to Dayton’s history can operate effectively. I thank my fellow Ohio colleagues, Congressman Landsman and Senators Husted and Moreno in their work to expand this landmark site,” said Turner.
“Dayton is the birthplace of aviation, and people from all over the country visit to learn about its legacy. This bill helps keep that history alive by making sure the park has what it needs to give children and families a great experience every time they visit,” said Landsman.
“This legislation addresses a critical need at Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park. I commend Senator Husted, Senator Moreno, Rep. Turner, and Rep. Landsman for leading this effort. This small change to the park’s boundary will have a tremendous impact ensuring the National Park visitor has a safe and enjoyable experience,” said Mackensie Wittmer, Executive Director of the National Aviation Heritage Area.
This bill would amend the Dayton Aviation Heritage Preservation Act of 1992 to extend the boundary of the park. On average, more than 81,000 people visit the Dayton Aviation National Historical Park each year.
Background:
The Dayton Aviation Heritage Preservation Act of 1992 authorized the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park. Under the law, the park contained four non-contiguous sites.
Since the park’s establishment, Congress enacted two laws expanding the boundaries to include additional sites.
The Dayton Aviation National Historical Park has limited access to minor boundary authorities under the Land Water Conversation Fund authority. For any adjustment to the park’s boundaries, congressional action is needed.
Read the full text of the bill here.