Bettis: Where Pittsburgh Aviation Took Off

Library Closure on August 28 & 29

Please note that the Library will be CLOSED on Thursday & Friday, August 28 & 29 for our restroom renovation. The Library will be open on the lower level ONLY on Saturday, August 30. Thank you for your patience.

Program Type:

Presentation

Age Group:

Adults
  • Registration is encouraged for this event.
  • Registration will close on November 13, 2025 @ 8:00pm.

Program Description

Event Details

Bettis Field and the ABCs of Pittsburgh Aviation 

American aviation took wing in the 1920s in fabric-covered biplanes from local airports that were little more than reclaimed cow pastures. 

Join Heinz History Center’s Director of Publications Brian Butko and regional historian Sue Morris as they share stories from their new book about our earliest aviation history and the men and women pilots who lifted off from Bettis Field in West Mifflin to touch the skies above Pittsburgh (and beyond).

Disclaimer(s)

Drop-Ins

Drop-ins welcome as space permits.

Photography Notice

While attending library programs, visitors may be photographed by library staff. Photographs become library property and may be used in library promotions. Individuals who do not want to be photographed or recorded are responsible for removing themselves from the area or notifying the photographer of their opt-out status.

Registration

Please register online or call the library at 412-486-0211.

Register for this event