Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum

The Flying Leatherneck Historical Foundation broke ground on the new Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum in Irvine on October 28, with plans for a spring 2027 opening. The 131,000 square-foot facility will feature a collection of more than 40 restored aircraft and artifacts representing over eight decades of Marine Corps aviation history. Originally established at Marine Corps Air Station El Toro in 1989, the museum was relocated to MCAS Miramar in San Diego after the base closed in 1999. In 2021, funding efforts enabled the museum's return to its original site at the Great Park. The museum will not only honor the legacy of Marine Corps aviators but also offer STEM education programs for local students.

Irvine Mayor Larry Agran emphasized the importance of preserving military history, calling the groundbreaking remarkable. Councilmember Mike Carroll noted the museum's role as a beacon of history and education. With community support, the project aims to enrich local culture and education upon its completion.