Florida Air Museum, aviation history and training in the heart of Lakeland

Located in Lakeland, Florida, the Florida Air Museum serves as the state's official aviation center. The complex houses a collection of historic aircraft, artifacts, and interactive exhibits that trace the evolution of flight and its impact on society, combining science outreach and entertainment for visitors of all ages.

The galleries include classic airplanes, ultralights, historic military aircraft and experimental designs, along with exhibits dedicated to American aviation pioneers such as Howard Hughes, a renowned aviator, engineer and businessman linked to the development of the aeronautical industry in the 20th century.

Highlights include the Howard Hughes Experience, the Florida Aviation Hall of Fame—which recognizes key figures in the state's aviation industry—and interactive exhibits designed to explain the science of flight and the technological evolution of commercial and military aviation. The museum also features areas designed for families, such as the Discovery Zone and the Jerry Holland Destination: Aviation Playground, where children and teens can learn basic aerodynamics through play. The facility is ADA-certified, ensuring accessibility for visitors with disabilities.

Education and training

The museum is part of the Aerospace Center for Excellence (ACE) campus, a non-profit organization dedicated to STEM education. Through this partnership, workshops, guided tours, camps, and school programs are offered throughout the year, aimed at bringing science and technology closer to students of all ages.

Within this educational ecosystem operates the Central Florida Aerospace Academy (CFAA), a public high school specializing in aerospace careers. There, students receive hands-on training in flight instruction, aircraft maintenance, avionics, aeronautical engineering, and unmanned systems operation, in addition to courses geared toward professional certifications.

ACE also promotes extracurricular programs such as STEM Sprouts and after-school activities that encourage interest in scientific careers from an early age.

Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo

The Florida Air Museum is the annual host of the SUN 'n FUN Aerospace Expo, one of the most important aerospace events in the United States, which in 2026 will take place from April 14 to 19. During the event, the venue features special exhibits, conferences, technical forums, and educational activities, making it a meeting point for enthusiasts, students, and professionals in the industry.

The combination of historical heritage, hands-on learning, and international events positions the museum as a space dedicated not only to preserving the memory of aviation, but also to fostering new generations interested in the aerospace industry.