Eastern Air Lines Flight 537: The 1949 Crash That Killed 55 Near National Airport
At 11:46 on November 1st, 1949, a young controller kept calling: Bolivia 927, turn left. The pilot never answered. Fifty-five died.
Washington National Airport
Washington National Airport opened in 1941 on reclaimed land along the Potomac in Arlington, Virginia, built to replace the old Hoover Airport and give the capital a modern aviation gateway. Now named Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, it has been a fixture of the DC skyline and a source of ongoing political controversy over its flight paths and passenger limits. These posts explore the airport’s history from its New Deal origins to the present.
Air Florida Flight 90 Tragedy: Blizzard, Heroism, and the Potomac’s Icy Waters
Explore the harrowing tale of Air Florida Flight 90’s crash into the Potomac River during Washington D.C.’s 1982 blizzard. Uncover stories of tragedy, remarkable heroism, and the city’s struggle amidst a day of unparalleled despair.
Unique Aerial View of the Waterfowl Sanctuary near Gravelly Point
Discover a unique aerial view of the waterfowl sanctuary near Gravelly Point. Get a birds-eye look of this beautiful landscape with this stunning image from the Library of Congress.
What Did National Airport Look Like in 1941?
Washington’s new airport opened for business in June 1941. This series of detailed photos shows what flying was like 80 years ago, more glamorous, quaint, and dressed up.
Take a Look at the Magazine Rack at National Airport in 1941
Take a look at a cool old photo of the magazine rack at National Airport when it opened in 1941. Plus, explore some more old photos and read three great stories from the airport!
Exploring the Aerial Views of National Airport in Arlington Before Pearl Harbor
Explore the fascinating old image of the aerial view of National Airport in Arlington, Virginia before Pearl Harbor in 1941. Read more to discover this historic sight!
Exploring Arlington: Aerial Photos of Washington National and the Pentagon, and Spout Run near Lee Highway and Dead Man’s Hollow
Explore Arlington, VA with two great photos sent in by GoDCer Ken. The first is an aerial photo around Washington National and the Pentagon. The second is Spout Run near Lee Highway and Dead Man’s Hollow.
Exploring Washington, D.C. Through the Photos of GoDCer Tony, a D.C. Native
Explore Washington, D.C. through the eyes of GoDCer Tony – a D.C. native. Tony’s father was a pilot with Eastern Airlines and he’s shared some of his photos, including shots of National Airport (not Reagan), the 1962 MLB All-Star Game at D.C. Stadium (i.e., RFK) and more!
Aviation History in the Washington Region: The First Transatlantic Passenger Jet Service
Aviation has a long history in the Washington area. In 1958, Pan Am inaugurated their transatlantic passenger jet service. President Eisenhower was present for the christening ceremony at National Airport. Learn more about this historic moment!