History: Birthplace of Naval Aviation

Naval Aviation proudly traces its roots 100 years ago to Naval Air Station North Island; the installation is officially recognized as the birthplace of Naval Aviation.

In 1911, the Navy’s first aviator, Lieutenant Theodore G. Ellyson, trained at North Island and later qualified in the A-1 Triad, the Navy’s first aircraft. From these first humble beginnings, the purpose and vision of Naval Aviation grew into a primary instrument of national security.