One Century Later, Pulitzer Electric Aircraft Race Revival Date Set

The original Pulitzer air races were largely Army-Navy showdowns featuring cutting-edge aircraft (by early 20th-century standards). In its new form, the event will feature only zero-emission, electric aircraft and be open to the public.

On Friday, the Advanced Air Mobility Institute (AAMI), which is hosting the revived Pulitzer air races through an agreement with the National Aeronautical Association (NAA), revealed the dates and location of the event: October 10-13 at Springfield-Beckley Municipal Airport’s (KSGH) National Advanced Air Mobility Center of Excellence (NAAMCE).

“The 1924 race took place at Wright Field, now part of Area B of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base,” said Ted Angel, executive director of NAAMCE, in a news release. “In that time Ohio has upheld its role as a leader in aerospace innovation and has become a trailblazer in the third revolution of flight…We hope the race to claim the Pulitzer Trophy inspires aviation enthusiasts of all ages.”

AAMI described the site selection process for the event as “highly competitive.” California cities Stockton, where hydrogen-electric aviation firm ZeroAvia recently set up shop, and Salinas, home to testing facilities for Archer Aviation’s Midnight electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) air taxi, were contenders. Ultimately, though, the group picked Springfield-Beckley, where the U.S. Air Force conducts electric aircraft testing.

Proposals were graded based on criteria such as airport capacity, charging capability, prior hosting experience, safety, and potential for public engagement. AAMI told FLYING that Springfield-Beckley has a comprehensive emergency protocol and more experience hosting electric aircraft demonstration flights than competitors.

“NAAMCE is a world-class facility with a thriving ecosystem of innovation, and it will prove to be the perfect inaugural host,” said Dan Sloat, founder of AAMI and executive producer of the revived Pulitzer Trophy. “The race will celebrate the dawn of electric aviation, pay homage to our aviation pioneers, and drive positive public awareness.”

The 2025 Pulitzer races will feature 24 handpicked teams who may fly any crewed, heavier-than-air aircraft powered entirely by electric propulsion—including experimental models, if the proper FAA permissions are secured. In addition to eVTOL aircraft, the event will welcome electric conventional takeoff and landing (eCTOL), electric short takeoff and landing (eSTOL), electric rotorcraft, electric seaplane, and other advanced air mobility (AAM) designs.

Like the original event, the winner will be determined by the fastest time to fly a set number of laps around a closed course. The multiday contest will include preliminary and semifinal heats, with three semifinalists advancing to a championship race. Each heat will include three cutting-edge aircraft, which pilots must fly three times around a 30 nm course in day VFR conditions. The champion will be crowned during a formal ceremony at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C.

AAMI said it also plans to offer “experience flights” for attendees in eCTOL and eVTOL aircraft, as well as an open air cockpit biplane from the 1920s.

Registration is not yet open, but crews looking to compete in the revamped air races can declare interest by emailing AAMI with their official team name, pilot in command (PIC), aircraft, and engine specifications. The group said a “handful” of teams have already reached out. Teams who preregister will owe a $2,000 deposit and must pay a $9,500 entry fee if selected to participate. More information about the race and its rules can be found here.

Like this story? We think you'll also like the Future of FLYING newsletter sent every Thursday afternoon. Sign up now.