Did you know the National Park Service uses aviation for many purposes on a daily basis? And that the NPS has a history steeped in aviation…from preserving and protecting some of our most important historical sites focused on aviation to historic aviation "firsts" in the United States? Explore this website and learn more about the rich history and use of aviation in your national parks.
Aviation in Your National Parks
Aviation History
Explore aviation history as it relates to the NPS. From the people to the places, these incredible stories are aviation's foundation.
Aviation in Space
From the moment man first flew, there was no stopping the ascent into the universe. Read the amazing stories that powered man into space.
Historic Fields and Airports
Read about the legacies of historic airfields and airports and of their significance in aviation history.
A Day in NPS Aviation Operations
Each day is different. A NPS crew could assist with a wildland fire, a trail project, search and rescue or a law enforcement operation.
Rocket Propulsion
Read the stories of how rocket propulsion has taken aviation into and well beyond the upper levels of the atmosphere.
Military Aircraft
Learn about some of the different military aircraft that have served the United States Army Air Corps, Air Force, Navy and Marines.
NPS Aviation Program
Learn more about the programmatic aspects of the National Park Service Aviation Program.
Aviation Resources
Explore some of the important resources that assist NPS aviation in accomplishing its mission.
Aviation Information
View some of the important and valuable information links that help NPS aviation carry out its mission.
Aviation Policy
Policy, regulations and guidelines are staples of NPS aviation operations on a daily basis. Learn more about them here.
Aviation Planning
From daily operational missions to long-term strategic guidance, planning is crucial to the NPS aviation mission.
Incident Support & Coordination Centers
Valuable tools for incident management, whether for aviation or another large-scale incident.
Wildland Fire Support
NPS aviation is integral to wildland firefighting. Aircraft deliver water, move firefighters and provide eyes in the sky.
Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)
Learn how NPS is using UAS to decrease risks on operational missions, reduce costs and provide additional aviation resources.
Training & Education
Education resources for aviation-related missions.
Safety Information & News
Up-to-date information and news from reliable and trusted sources for aviation-related missions.
Discover Aviation
Whether you're an educator or just have a novice interest in aviation, our education resources have the info you need.
Aviation Educator Resources
A broad variety of resources containing aviation education information and membership organizations from both private and public entities.
Types of Aviation Jobs
Seasonal and full-time positions with the NPS that relate to aviation and their basic duties and qualifications.
NPS Aviation Careers
Interested in a career in aviation with the National Park Service? Learn more about what it takes and available jobs.
Online Tools & Databases
Some of the more important tools and guidance that we use to help us carry out our mission.
Laws, Procedures & Manuals
The legal references and regulations that govern aviation management and incidents.
State & Federal Government
Links to various state and federal agencies that support the NPS aviation mission.