2025 Competition Celebrates 96 Years Since the First Women’s Air Derby

More than a hundred female pilots from across the US are gearing up for a 2,426-mile, 9-state journey as part of the 48th annual Air Race Classic. The fun officially begins in Fairhope, Alabama, on June 17.

The race tradition started 96 years ago with the Women’s Air Derby, hosted in 1929 under the 1929 National Air Races. Back then, a group of twenty women came together at Clover Field in Santa Monica, California, for what would be a nine-day race to Cleveland, Ohio.

The original Women’s Air Derby shifted through several forms, including the so-called ‘Powder Puff Derby,’ before taking shape as the annual aviation event we now know and love: the Air Race Classic. Every aspect of the competition has evolved since its inception, with current racers flying longer legs, taking fewer stops, and working with a co-pilot.

"The excitement is palpable as we prepare to mark the 96th anniversary of the Women's Air Derby," explained Donna Harris, President of the Air Race Classic. "This isn't just a race; it's a celebration of women's prowess in the skies and a testament to the indomitable spirit of aviation."

The 2025 Air Race Classic will bring over 50 teams from across the nation, including several from accredited collegiate flight programs. Competitors work in groups of at least two, each holding a minimum private pilot certificate and 100 PIC hours. One must have logged 500 hours as PIC or hold a current instrument rating. The duos are required to fly normally aspirated, piston-powered birds in visual conditions during the day.

The teams will line up at Alabama’s H.L. Sonny Callahan Airport (CQF) on June 17 to start the race. They will depart every 30 seconds, kicking off their 2,426 statute mile path to Felts Field (SFF) in Spokane, Washington. Along the way, they will cross nine states and make stops in Starkville, MS; Harrison, AR; McPherson, KS; Sterling, CO; Gillette, WY; Rock Springs, WY; Jerome, ID; and La Grande, OR to get fuel… and show off as desired.

FMI: www.airraceclassic.org