Wednesday, September 16, 2026

Question: Which airline made the first official landing at the newly opened National Airport—now named the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport—after the airlines drew straws for the honor?

Answer: American Airlines made the first official landing at the newly opened National Airport after the airlines drew straws to decide the honor. The plane was piloted by Bennett H. Griffin, who later became the airport’s manager. Eastern Airlines completed the second inaugural landing, with President Franklin D. Roosevelt attending the ceremony to observe the historic first arrival.