19 May 2026
Some bright spark at the world governing body for air sports, Fédération Aéronautique Internationale, has obviously seen how World Pilots’ Day appeals to professional pilots so it’s decided that private pilots – of all types of flying – need a special day too.
Yes, the FAI has announced the launch of an annual ‘International Day of Air Sports’, to be held each year on 14 October from 2026.
The initiative is intended to unite pilots, clubs and aviation organisations worldwide through local events, demonstrations and coordinated social media activity celebrating all forms of air sport.
FAI says it will provide participating organisations with campaign toolkits, graphics and ready-made social media content to help promote the day consistently across the globe. Activities will centre on 14 October, although organisers will be encouraged to stage events around the date to suit local opportunities.
Of course, the date hasn’t just come out of the blue. It marks the anniversary of the FAI’s founding in Paris in 1905. The organisation, which governs everything from gliding and aerobatics to ballooning, microlights and drones, will also incorporate the celebrations into its 120th General Conference in Lausanne during the same week.
FAI President Greg Principato said the new initiative would help make the worldwide air sports community “more visible and united” while encouraging new participants into aviation and aerospace activities.
