Looking for a unique way to spend your Saturday learning about the world of aviation and its history on the Outer Banks—while also getting an up-close-and-personal view of various aircraft competing against one another to win a friendly race against the clock?
Stop by the Dare County Regional Airport (KMQI) on Saturday, May 17, 2025 to check out the OBX 50/150 Cross-Country Air Challenge, which will be hosted by the Sport Air Racing League beginning at 10 a.m. at the airport, which is located at 410 Airport Road in Manteo.
This free event will bring a thrilling display of speed and precision as pilots compete in a cross-country air race, navigating the skies and “checking in” at a series of local airports across northeastern North Carolina. In addition to the racing action, attendees can take self-guided tours of the Dare County Regional Airport Museum and enjoy offerings from a coffee truck on site. The OBX 50/150 Cross-Country Air Challenge is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for residents and visitors to experience aviation up close, learn about the Outer Banks’ rich and decades-long aviation history, and support an exciting family friendly community event.
2025 OBX Air Challenge Event Schedule- Saturday, May 17, 2025:
8 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. – Pilot check-in and briefing (Opportunity for visitors to view aircraft)
11 a.m. – Engines start and race begins
11 a.m. to 12 p.m. – Cross-Country Air Challenge with announcers updating visitors on progress
For more information about the Dare County Regional Airport, please visit DareNC.gov/Airport.
