It's a momentous year in aviation as Los Angeles World Airports celebrates the 75th anniversary of LAX and the 100th anniversary of the first manned flight by the Wright Brothers. To celebrate these significant milestones in aviation history, several celebrations are in store for Los Angeles World Airports and its surrounding communities.

Imperial Terminal Renovation

The centerpiece of the anniversary celebration will be the renovation of the Imperial Terminal to create a new LAX museum and community center. The center will be a focal point of exhibits, lectures, special programs and other activities marking the 75th anniversary of LAX and the Centennial of Flight. Plans call for exhibits of authentic aviation artifacts, photographs and other memorabilia, as well as tours and educational programs. The exhibits and programs will be geared to travelers, area residents and the business community. The Flight Path Learning Center of Southern California will operate the facility and plans to provide guidance to students and others interested in the history and development of the aviation/aerospace industry and careers in the field.

March 13 – "Wings" Screenings

The anniversary activities will be officially launched with screenings of "Wings," the first Academy Awards Best Picture, which was coincidentally produced 75 years ago. LAWA is presenting this event, in partnership with the El Segundo, Inglewood/Airport Area and Westchester/LAX-Marina del Rey chambers of commerce. The event will benefit the Flight Path Learning Center (FPLC), a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation of aviation. Two screenings are scheduled Thursday, March 13 in the Old Town Music Hall, 140 Richmond Street, El Segundo. There will be a 1 p.m. matinee for a $10 donation, and a 6 p.m. reception followed by a 7 p.m. screening for a $25 donation. The silent film will feature accompaniment from an impressive Wurlitzer pipe organ.

April 27-30 – Hosting of the American Association of Airport Executives 75th annual convention

What a year to celebrate—it’s the 100th year anniversary of the historical first flight of Wilbur and Orville Wright, the 75th anniversary of Oscar and the Academy Awards, the 75th anniversary of LAX and last but certainly not least, the 75th Annual AAAE Conference and Exposition to be held April 27-30, 2003, in Los Angeles, California. If there was ever a conference that can’t be missed, this is the one!

The Annual AAAE Conference and Exposition offers three full days of informative lectures, panels and group workshops. Airport executives have the opportunity to network with fellow managers from large, medium, and small air carrier and general aviation airports. The two and one-half day exposition, sponsored in conjunction with the conference, has a proven record extending over 30 consecutive years of providing airport executives with the opportunity to view equipment, products and services designed to help in the day-to-day operation of their airports.

May 15 – Radio Station KFWB Power Breakfast

This even commemorates LAWA’s 75^th Anniversary and National Tourism Month. It will take place at the L. A. Airport Hilton in the International Ballroom. Check-in will begin at 6:30 a.m. and the event will end at 9 a.m. The cost and other details are available at KFWB's web site.

June 21-22 – Van Nuys Aviation Expo

Van Nuys Airport's Aviation Expo 2003 celebrates the 75th anniversary of Los Angeles World Airports and the 100th anniversary of flight. Selected as an official stop on the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics' Wright Flyer Centennial Tour, honoring the evolution of flight, Aviation Expo proudly presents an exact replica of the Wright Brothers' 1903 original aircraft.

In keeping with tradition, this year's event will also feature exciting military and vintage aircraft displays, live entertainment, exhibits and more. Admission is free and includes free parking at nearby locations and free shuttle bus service. Operating hours will be 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Please check back at www.lawa.org/vny/html/aviation_expo.html in the coming months for more details!