For a fascinating glimpse into the aviation history in southern Nevada, stop by Howard W. Cannon Aviation Museum in Las Vegas. This quaint museum is located in McCarran International Airport and is perfect for a quick visit while on a layover. With an impressive collection of fascinating photographs and historical artifacts, visitors can trace the legacy of Nevada aviation from the first flight in the state in 1920 through the modern times. Although the museum is small in size, it is packed with great information about early innovators like Randall Henderson, historic feats like the World Endurance Flight, and local developments in Nevada commerical and military aviation. Read the guide to Aviation Museum, Las Vegas, below for more museum highlights and helpful visitor information.
Museum highlights
From the creation of the first airfield in Nevada to the introduction of modern jets, Howard W. Cannon Aviation Museum reflects upon the state’s long legacy of commercial, military, and general aviation. Across the scattered exhibits in the Clark County Airport System are a unique collection of aviation-related artifacts ranging from pilot uniforms to plane parts and gear, as well as historic photographs that illustrate the brilliant stories of momentous flying feats and aviation pioneers and advocates. Enjoy a pleasant stroll around the static displays, and learn more about famous pilots, the history of Nellis Air Force Base and military planes, and the development of commercial airports from the illustrative display panels.
1956 red Ford Thunderbird
One such unique attraction in the museum’s collection is the red 1956 Ford Thunderbird car. This vehicle is the same make and model as the one owned and operated by George Crockett, the founder of McCarran International Airport. When first opened in 1941, McCarran International Airport was called Alamo Airport, and from 1957 until 1968, the Thunderbird of George and Peg Crockett was a fixture on site at the airport. Their Thunderbird actually played a part in being the first on the scene of a couple of emergencies as it was faster than contemporary emergency vehicles, and became known as the airport’s “crash car.” As visitors admire the historic replica car, they can also learn more about the airport’s early history.
1958 Cessna 172
Another special artifact in the museum’s collection is the 1958 Cessna 172 hanging over the north end of the baggage claim at Terminal 1. This is the only airplane on display in the museum and it has a breathtaking history. This small plane, manned by pilots Robert Timm and John Cook, broke the World Endurance Aloft flying record in 1959 when they flew for 64 days, 22 hours, 19 minutes, and 5 seconds without touching ground. Their record-breaking flight was planned as a fundraiser for the Damon Runyon Cancer Fund and sponsored by the Hacienda Hotel and Casino, and the record holds to this day.
Stories of aviation advocates
Many famous aviators, including Amelia Earhart and Charles Lindbergh, have flown out of Las Vegas, but the first pilot to land here was Randall Henderson. Museum visitors can learn more about Henderson’s thrilling journey in a borrowed Curtis JN-4, “Jenny”, and his historic landing on May 7, 1920 through the informative displays. The museum also features background information about the early owners of the McCarran International Airport, including George Crockett and record-breaking aviation pilot and engineer Howard Hughes, as well as the museum’s namesake, Howard W. Cannon. Howard Cannon was a US senator for the state of Nevada who served from 1958 until 1982 and is credited for his work passing the Airline Deregulation Act of 1978 among many other accomplishments. This piece of legislation was vital to developing the commercial airline industry and aided a doubling of commercial traffic into McCarran International Airport between the years of 1978 and 1980.
The museum also highlights the development of military aviation during and after the war years and brims with information about the impact of nearby Nellis Air Force Base.
Traveler's tips
This petite museum is perfect for passengers to explore during their spare time on stopovers or layovers, as well as for people picking up guests from the airport and of course, aficionados of aviation history. However, while there are a few parts of the display available to the general public, the majority of the museum is only accessible to ticketed passengers in the C & D Gate areas.
How to get there
While there are smaller exhibits located in several other airports in the Clark County Airport System, the museum’s main exhibit is located in McCarran International Airport on Level 2 in Terminal 1. There are also free exhibits for guests to peruse at the gate areas, ticketing sections, and along the moving walkway in the C Gates. There is short-term parking available for Terminal 1.
Howard W. Cannon Aviation Museum information
Howard W. Cannon Aviation Museum
Address: 25 Wayne Newton Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119, United States
Official website: Howard W. Cannon Aviation Museum
Department of tourism: Visit Las Vegas
Opening hours: Open 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
History
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