Operating from Brookhaven and Long Island's Rich Aviation History

Union Coast Flyers Club of New York is proud to call Brookhaven, Long Island our home base. By operating from this historic region, we not only benefit from its strategic location and excellent facilities but also pay tribute to the deep-rooted history of aviation that has shaped Long Island over the years.

Long Island: The Cradle of Aviation

Long Island's connection to aviation dates back to the early days of flight. With its flat, open terrain and proximity to New York City, Long Island became a hub for aviation pioneers who saw the potential for flight to revolutionize transportation and commerce.

Some notable moments in Long Island's aviation history include:

1. First Public Airplane Flight in America (1909): Glenn Curtiss, a prominent aviation pioneer, conducted the first public airplane flight in America at the Hempstead Plains, now part of Nassau County.

2. Long Island's Role in World War I: During WWI, Long Island became a vital center for aircraft manufacturing, training, and testing. The island was home to a number of airfields, including Roosevelt Field, Mitchel Field, and Hazelhurst Field, which played crucial roles in training and equipping the U.S. military for the conflict.

3. Charles Lindbergh's Transatlantic Flight (1927): Charles Lindbergh's historic nonstop solo flight from New York to Paris took off from Roosevelt Field in Long Island, placing the region at the center of global attention and further cementing its importance in the aviation world.

4. Grumman Corporation: The Grumman Corporation, a major American aerospace and defense contractor, was founded in Long Island in 1929. The company played a significant role in the development and production of military and civilian aircraft, including the renowned F-14 Tomcat fighter jet and the Apollo Lunar Module that carried astronauts to the moon.