The Museum offers Wright Aeroplane Rib Making for groups by reservation. This is a wonderful program for scouts, civic and school groups of either adults or children over the age of 7. Each participant engineers and constructs an authentic 1909 Wright Brothers Wing Rib using the patterns, materials, and tools similar to those used by the Wrights in building their Wright Military Flyer. The 1909 Military Flyer is the governments 1st aeroplane and is currently on display at the National Air & Space Museum in downtown Washington, D.C. in the Early Flight Gallery.

The Wright's brought their newly accepted Military Flyer aeroplane to the College Park Airfield in August of 1909 to teach the 1st military officers to fly. Participants will see how ribs make up the wing of a plane. They will also see how its construction compares to the ribs of other aircraft of that era including the Wright aircraft that preceded and succeeded it, and by observing the ribs on display throughout the Museum. The materials for this construction project include poplar (substituting for the harder spruce wood that the Wrights actually used), hammers, clamps, brads, wooden spacers, etc. By emphasizing teamwork two partners will cooperate and work together and make two ribs - one for each person.

These ribs are a great souvenir and can be decorated, signed by members of the group or just displayed as is. They are an amazing testament to the Wrights engineering skills.

This program typically ½ hour to 45 mins. per rib and can be combined with a tour, or your group can enjoy the Museum on their own after the program. The $8 workshop fee includes museum admission. Your program can also be combined with lunch or dinner at the 94th Squadron Restaurant 301-699-9400 next door or a picnic lunch on our airport grounds. Call for reservations.