Sullenberger Aviation Museum

The new multi-building campus will offer immersive learning experiences like flight simulators, interactive exhibits, STEM education programs, and unique radio frequency identification (RFID) storytelling of the Carolinas’ past, present, and future in aviation. With its canopy design inspired by aircraft wing structures, the Welcome Building provides an additional STEM-focused educational experience. The building includes a makerspace, allowing visitors to build, explore, and solve puzzles using tools like snap circuits, Lego robotics, and 3D printers. The makerspace will also include a Flight Forward Catalog, which will connect people to career opportunities in STEM-based industries. By including these educational tools, museum leaders hope the redesign will help create more diversity and economic mobility in the next generation of aviators, inspiring and empowering children to pursue careers in STEM, aerospace, and aviation.

“Capt. Sullenberger saved the lives of over a hundred people thanks to his quick thinking and courageous actions spurred by years of specialized training in science, math, and engineering, the combination of which allowed him and his crew to land Flight 1549 safely in the Hudson River,” says Stephen Saucier, museum president.

“Capt. Sullenberger has committed his life to inspiring and educating future generations by elevating the wonder of flight and affirming the importance of STEM learning and equity, all of which mirrors our museum’s mission. Every inch of this new space is designed to expand visitors’ horizons and provide inclusive learning opportunities for all, and we are honored that our new name will reflect that spirit for years to come.”