The Pulitzer Trophy Race, last held in 1924 at Wright Field—now part of Area B at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base—returns to Ohio, spotlighting the state’s significant advancements in air mobility. The event, organized by the National Advanced Air Mobility Center of Excellence (NAAMCE), aims to showcase Ohio’s unique air mobility resources, including dedicated airspace designated for testing new aviation technologies.
This competition invites participation from 24 crews piloting zero-emission, fully electric aircraft such as eVTOL, eHelicopter, electric seaplane, eCTOL, and eSTOL. These aircraft, whose acronyms indicate their electric and takeoff and landing capabilities, will compete to enhance public awareness of advanced air mobility technologies. The eVTOL refers to vertical takeoff and landing, while the letters S and C denote short and conventional takeoff and landing, respectively.
The race, conducted as a 90 nautical mile closed-circuit triangular course, will see eight heats, including preliminary and semi-final rounds, leading to a final competition. The triumphant team will be honored at a ceremony held at the Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum in Washington, D.C. More details on the event can be found at pulitzertrophy.com.
Springfield, Ohio, was chosen as the host city for this historic event, prevailing over Salinas and Stockton, California. The selection was made by the Air Mobility Institute, which praised NAAMCE’s compelling bid. Dan Sloat, founder and president of the Advanced Air Mobility Institute, expressed that the revival of the Pulitzer Trophy Race is a testament to Ohio’s continued leadership in aviation innovation, honoring the legacy of the Wright Brothers and celebrating the dawn of the zero-emission aviation era.
The event will also feature an air mobility industry forum with keynote speakers and workshops focused on the sector’s advancements. Additional information is available at aamohio.com.
Your Takeaway
The resurgence of the Pulitzer Trophy Race serves as a pivotal moment for both the aviation industry and the broader community. By focusing on zero-emission, fully electric aircraft, the race not only highlights technological advancements but also underscores the growing emphasis on sustainable aviation solutions. Such progress is vital for reducing the carbon footprint of air travel, offering a glimpse into a future where environmentally friendly air mobility is the norm.
For local communities, hosting this prestigious event can spur economic activity, attract tourists, and position Springfield as a hub for innovation and sustainability. The event’s industry forum is expected to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing among aviation experts, potentially leading to further investments and developments in the region. As electric aircraft become more commonplace, these efforts could significantly impact local economies, infrastructure development, and public awareness of sustainable practices.
