The Air Race Classic, the nation’s premier all-women cross-country air race, will touch down in Mt. Vernon later this month, with racers scheduled to arrive at Mt. Vernon Outland Airport by 5 p.m. on Friday, June 26th. The finish will cap a more than 2,200-mile route that launches from Alton, Illinois, on June 23th and winds through Kentucky, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, Kansas and Wisconsin before concluding in Southern Illinois.
City and airport officials said Mt. Vernon’s selection as the 2026 race terminus will draw pilots, aviation enthusiasts and visitors from across the country, spotlighting the community and its airport on a national stage. Organizers said the event will celebrate the courage, skill and accomplishments of women in aviation and inspire the next generation of pilots and aerospace professionals.
To mark the finale, the airport will host a free Kids’ Day on Saturday, June 27th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The family-friendly program will feature free Young Eagle airplane rides, opportunities to meet participating women pilots, hands-on activities, aviation education exhibits and other entertainment.
The Air Race Classic traces its roots to the pioneering women’s air races of the early 20th century and remains one of the country’s most prestigious aviation competitions. Additional details are available through Mt. Vernon Airport and at AirRaceClassic.org.