THROUGH THE LENS: The Pima Air & Space Museum
Report and photos by Steven Valinski
April 21, 2025
TUCSON, Ariz. – Nestled near Davis-Monthan Air Force Base and the infamous 309th AMARG, aka – “The Boneyard,” stands the Pima Air & Space Museum. A must-visit spot for anyone with a fascination for flight. The museum spans 127 acres, with 80 acres dedicated to displays, this nonprofit aerospace museum is one of the largest of its kind in the world, housing nearly 400 aircraft. Some of the finest examples of military, civilian, commercial and experimental aircraft can be found here. Since its opening in May 1976, the museum has grown into a must-visit destination for aviation enthusiasts, historians, and curious travelers alike, offering a connection to the machines that have shaped aviation history and the stories of those who flew them.
The museum’s origins are rooted in a desire to preserve aviation heritage. In 1966, during the U.S. Air Force’s 25th anniversary, commanders at the nearby Davis-Monthan AFB recognized that historic aircraft stored at the Military Aircraft Storage and Disposition Center (now the 309th AMARG) were being lost to smelters. To save these relics, base officials began setting aside significant planes, initially displaying them along the base’s fence line for public viewing. This grassroots effort, supported by the Tucson Air Museum Foundation and Pima County, led to the establishment of the Pima Air & Space Museum on a 320-acre plot of federal land.
The museum’s scale can be overwhelming. It is recommended that visitors plan on spending an entire day, or spread the visit over two days, to fully appreciate the displays. A narrated tram tour, available for an additional $10 per person, covers the outdoor exhibits and offers historical information along the way.
Pima’s commitment to preservation extends beyond display. A restoration hangar ensures rare aircraft, like the recently acquired Martin Mars are meticulously maintained or refurbished.
More information about this wonderful museum can be found HERE.
For now, let’s take a look at some of the museum’s exhibits, “THROUGH THE LENS.”
Steven is from Long Island, New York and now resides in sunny Mesa, Arizona. Steven’s love for aviation began when he was a child with a fascination for WWII aircraft. This love of aviation was further fostered by his uncle, a long-time Trans World Airlines (TWA) employee who had a passion for all forms of aviation.
Steven’s interest in photography began when he was 16 years old when he received his first SLR camera, a Minolta XGA. It makes sense that eventually his passion for aviation and photography would merge into a love for aviation photography.
In addition to being the web designer, webmaster and chief editor of Aviation Photography Digest, Steven has been published in numerous magazines worldwide.
Steven has an M.S. from Boston University and uses Nikon photographic equipment.
Steven is a Nikon NPS member.
Steven can be reached at: [email protected]