Aviation Day

What Is Aviation Day?

September 20th is "Aviation Day" (空の日, Sora no Hi, literally "Sky Day") in Japan. It originates from "Koku no Hi" (Aviation Day), established by the Japanese government in 1940. In 1992, it was renamed "Sora no Hi" to give it a friendlier, more approachable name.

Why September 20th?

The year 1940 marked exactly 30 years since December 1910, when army captains Yoshitoshi Tokugawa and Kumazo Hino made Japan's first powered flights at the Yoyogi Parade Ground in Tokyo. It was also a time when celebrations of the "2,600th year of the imperial era" were under way, and "Koku no Hi" was established as a national event to promote the development of aviation. The first Aviation Day was held on September 28, and in 1941 the ministries concerned agreed to hold it on September 20.

• December 1910: Japan's first powered flights at the Yoyogi Parade Ground.
• Established: As "Koku no Hi" in 1940; held on September 20 from 1941.
• Renamed: "Sora no Hi" in 1992, the 40th anniversary of the resumption of civil aviation.
• Purpose: To deepen public understanding of and interest in aviation, and to raise awareness of air safety.

Background and Significance

Aviation Day events were suspended after the war, when the Allied occupation banned aviation activities, but they were revived in 1953. Today, events are held nationwide on this day to look back on the history of aviation and think about air safety and the progress of aviation technology.

• Airport events: Runway tours, aircraft displays, control tower visits and more.
• Aviation education: Aviation classes and workshops for children.
• Prayers for safe flight: Some shrines and temples near airports hold ceremonies praying for aviation safety.

The Technology Behind Aviation

Aviation technology keeps advancing and contributes greatly to our lives and economic activity.

• Aircraft technology: Jet engines, lightweight materials, aerodynamic design and more.
• Air traffic control: Sophisticated control systems for safe flight.
• Airport infrastructure: Runways, taxiways and terminal facilities.

Interesting Facts About Aviation Day

• "Sora no Junkan": Along with the 1992 renaming, September 20–30 was designated "Sora no Junkan" (Sky Period), when events are concentrated at airports nationwide.
• The start of Japanese aviation: Captains Yoshitoshi Tokugawa and Kumazo Hino are the pioneers of Japan's aviation history.
• Air safety: Air travel is considered one of the safer modes of transportation.
• The role of airports: Airports are important hubs for tourism, logistics and international exchange.

Tips for Enjoying Aviation Day

• Join an event at a nearby airport and get a behind-the-scenes look at aviation.
• Go watch planes take off and land and feel the power up close.
• Learn how flight works at an aviation museum or science museum.
• Look up at the sky and enjoy the seasonal clouds and colors.

Look Up, and Technology Meets Dreams

Aviation Day on September 20th is a day to reflect on the history and future of flight. Behind the everyday sight of airplanes in the sky lie the efforts and skills of a great many people.