On August 28, we celebrate Polish Aviation Day—a joint celebration of civil and military aviation as well as the Polish aviation industry. This date commemorates the victory of Captain Pilot Franciszek Żwirko and Engineer-Pilot Stanisław Wigura in the Challenge 1932 international touring aircraft competition. It was their triumph, achieved on August 28, 1932, that became one of the symbols of Polish aviation’s success.
To mark today’s observance, a delegation from the Polish Aviation Museum – comprising Director Tomasz Kosecki, Deputy Director for Administration and Investment Tomasz Krzaczyński, and Chief Curator of Collections Ewa Cuber-Strutyńska – laid flowers and lit candles at the Monument to Polish Airmen in Kraków. Unveiled in 1989, the monument – designed by Bronisław Chromy – commemorates Polish airmen who lost their lives on all fronts of World War II.
Today offers an opportunity to honor those who, through their service, work, and passion, have shaped the history of Polish aviation—both those who achieved great victories and those who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty.
We extend our best wishes to all aviators: may you enjoy safe flights, satisfaction in your missions, and the courage to take on new challenges, all while maintaining the enduring passion that has guided Poles toward the skies for generations.
We also invite you to the Polish Aviation Museum this coming Sunday, August 30, for the major Małopolska region celebration of Polish Aviation Day. This year’s event holds special significance for us, as we gather to commemorate the centenary of Bolesław Orliński’s extraordinary Warsaw–Tokyo–Warsaw flight.
See you at the Museum!
