This exhibit has closed.

On December 17, 1903, a 12-horsepower engine powered the Wright Flyer on history's first successful motorized and piloted, heavier-than-air flight.

Aviation has become an integral part of society. Its impact can be directly linked to the progression of engine designs and their capabilities.

This Way Up demonstrates the evolution and impact of aviation engine design over the past 120 years. The exhibit also tells a story of innovation driven by individuals, companies, and historical events.

The exhibit features ten authentic aircraft engines, interactive displays that demonstrate how different engines operate, and a timeline showing the progression and innovation of aviation engine design since the Wright Flyer took flight in 1903.

Exhibit opened August 17, 2019.


This exhibit is made possible by the generous support of GE Aviation.