Construction Officially Underway for the Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum

First truckload of steel being delivered for the Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum

Earlier this month, the first truckload of steel was delivered for the future home of the Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum at the Great Park. The delivery marked the beginning of construction for a world-class aviation museum, set to open in spring 2027.

Located on the land that housed the iconic El Toro Marine Corps Air Station for nearly six decades, it will be the only museum in America solely dedicated to Marine Corps aviation.

The state-of-the-art 100,000-square-foot museum is being built in the Cultural Terrace area of the Great Park, adjacent to the existing Sports Complex. In addition to housing more than 50 restored aircraft, the museum will feature a number of artifacts and interactive displays.

The museum will also become a pinnacle of learning for youth and college students through STEAM-focused programs. Additionally, a research library will be on-site — featuring books, photos, and materials related to Marine Corps aviation and its history.

Rendering of the Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum

Last year, 80 UCI mechanical and aerospace engineering students partnered with the Flying Leatherneck Historical Foundation on an ambitious project to design and build a full-scale replica of the iconic World War I–era Jenny, which will hang in the rotunda of the new museum.

“The Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum will be a wonderful amenity in our Great Park,” said Mayor Larry Agran. “I am confident it is going to help in so many ways to connect younger people, and older people as well, with our City’s rich military history.”

To view the aviation museum plans, click here.