More than 100 women pilots will soar into history from Fairhope’s Sonny Callahan Airport as the 48th Annual Air Race Classic kicks off a 2,500-mile journey across the country.

Continuing a tradition that began 96 years ago with the 1929 Women’s Air Derby — an event that saw legends like Amelia Earhart take to the skies — the Air Race Classic (ARC) will launch between June 17 and June 20. This year’s race spans from Fairhope to Spokane, Washington, challenging teams of two to three pilots to navigate a demanding course under visual flight rules, during daylight hours only.

Unlike typical air races, victory in the ARC is not about speed. Strategy rules the day as competitors must fly to nine designated airports along the route but are not required to land at each. Teams must touch down at one of the stops by sunset every evening and are required to cross the finish line in Spokane by 5 p.m. June 20.

Pilots and race officials will begin arriving in Fairhope on June 11. In the days leading up to the race, participants will attend safety briefings, undergo plane inspections and take part in a series of events hosted by the Fairhope Airport Authority. Several of these events will be open to the public, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at preparations for this historic competition.

Before race day, local Girl Scouts will meet with the aviators, who range in age from 17 to over 90. Organizers aim to inspire the next generation of female pilots by helping the scouts earn aviation-themed badges and introducing them to the possibilities of careers and hobbies in flight. Promoting aviation among women and providing positive role models is a core mission of the Air Race Classic.

Volunteers from the community are encouraged to assist with race preparations and educational programming. To register as a volunteer, scan the QR code provided in promotional materials or contact the organizers directly.

For more information about the Air Race Classic, visit www.airraceclassic.org.

To learn more about the educational programming for Girl Scouts, please contact Allison Marlow at allisonmarlow7@gmail.com.