Frontiers of Flight Museum Celebrates Bessie Coleman's Legacy

New exhibit honors pioneering African American aviator

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Frontiers of Flight Museum in Dallas, Texas has opened a new exhibit celebrating the life and achievements of Bessie Coleman, the first African American woman to earn a pilot's license. The exhibit features artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that highlight Coleman's trailblazing career and her impact on the aviation industry.

Why it matters

Bessie Coleman overcame racial and gender barriers to become a pioneering aviator in the early 20th century. Her story serves as an inspiration for aspiring pilots and an important chapter in the history of aviation. The new exhibit at the Frontiers of Flight Museum helps preserve her legacy and educate visitors about her groundbreaking accomplishments.

The details

The Bessie Coleman exhibit at the Frontiers of Flight Museum includes a variety of artifacts and multimedia displays that chronicle her life and career. Visitors can see Coleman's pilot's license, photographs of her performing aerial stunts, and interactive exhibits that allow them to learn more about her journey to becoming a licensed pilot. The museum has also recreated the cockpit of the plane she flew, giving visitors a chance to sit in the pilot's seat.

  • The Bessie Coleman exhibit opened at the Frontiers of Flight Museum on February 16, 2026.

The players

Frontiers of Flight Museum

A museum in Dallas, Texas that celebrates the history of aviation and aerospace.

Bessie Coleman

The first African American woman to earn a pilot's license, who overcame racial and gender barriers to become a pioneering aviator in the early 20th century.

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What they’re saying

“Bessie Coleman's story is one of perseverance, courage, and a relentless pursuit of her dreams. This exhibit allows us to honor her legacy and inspire the next generation of aviators.”

— Raamel Mitchell, Spokesperson, Frontiers of Flight Museum (wfaa.com)

What’s next

The Frontiers of Flight Museum plans to host a series of educational programs and events throughout the year to complement the Bessie Coleman exhibit and further highlight her contributions to aviation.

The takeaway

The Bessie Coleman exhibit at the Frontiers of Flight Museum serves as a powerful reminder of the barriers that pioneering individuals have overcome to achieve their dreams, and the importance of celebrating and preserving the stories of those who have paved the way for future generations.