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Anchorage and Alaska Aviation History and Lore To all aviation history buffs -- as you study the history of aviation (particularly general aviation) in Alaska, you will be struck sooner or later by a blinding flash of the obvious. Down in "America" (the "lower 48"), social and material infrastructure was well in place when Orville and Wilbur kicked the tire and lit the fire. Therefore, aviation was, by necessity, integrated into an infrastructure that accomodated horses, trains and motorcars. At that time, however, Alaska enjoyed no "lines of communication," particularly in winter. The first airplanes and their pilot-heroes that ventured here changed that. General aviation (Col. Byington) How it All Began . . . May 20, 1929 -- the Petition May 20, 1929 -- the Resolution June 5, 1929 -- There's always a Committee September 3, 1929 -- Let's get some Light on the Subject April 11, 1930 -- Deciding on the Name January 28, 1931 -- Seeking Congressional Help May 15, 1931 -- Can we have some cooperation out there . . . November 24, 1931 -- Location Map November 24, 1931 -- Site Map February 25, 1932 -- the Presidential Order |
was the core about which the Territory, then the State, grew. Few people and little commerce moved without it. That's why airports are respected and loved here, and that's why some young Alaskans learn to fly before learning to drive.
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632 W. 6th Avenue Anchorage, Alaska 99501
PO Box 196650 Anchorage, Alaska 99519
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