DAYTON — Choppers are taking to the skies in Ohio later this month as HeliStorm 2025 takes over the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force.
The free event offers new experiences revolving around radio-controlled (RC) helicopters. There will be demonstrations, aviation-themed activities and educational opportunities. Through the experiences, organizers say the goal is to inspire interest in science, technology, engineering and math.
“HeliStorm is designed to spark curiosity and inspire the next generation through flight,” said Michael Kranitz, founder and CEO of HeliStorm, Inc., the nonprofit organization coordinating the event. “Hosting the event at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force provides a unique setting where model aviation and full-scale aviation history intersect. We're excited to share the joy of rotorcraft flight with families, students, and anyone curious about aviation or STEM.”
The event runs May 29 to June 1, with a majority of outdoor activities scheduled for May 30 and May 31. The event is weather dependent and visitors are encouraged to check the museum's website for more updates.
There will be more than 150 RC helicopters that will fly during the event, simulating search-and-rescue operations, emergency medical service flights, military maneuvers and team formation flying. COSI on Wheels will also be at the event, offering hands-on STEM activities.
Visitors will also be able to explore several U.S. Air Force helicopters and aircraft on display in the museum including the Sikorsky UH-19B Chickasaw “Hopalong” (look-in only), Sikorsky HH-60G “Pave Hawk,” Sikorsky CH-3E “Black Mariah,” Sikorsky HH-3E “Jolly Green Giant,” and Bell-Boeing CV-22B Osprey.
The Air Force aircraft can be viewed from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.