Montgomery, Ala. – On the 65th anniversary of a pivotal yet often overlooked moment in the Civil Rights Movement, Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM), in partnership with the Friends of the Freedom Rides Museum, will host a special commemorative event honoring “The Few Who Flew”—the courageous Freedom Riders who challenged segregation at Montgomery’s airport and helped change the course of American history.
The public program will take place Friday, July 24, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at Montgomery Regional Airport and will bring together community leaders, historians, educators, civil rights advocates, and members of the public to reflect on the lasting impact of those whose actions helped desegregate airports throughout the South.
While the Freedom Rides are most often associated with interstate bus travel, fewer people know the story of the individuals who challenged segregation within commercial aviation. Their determination led the Kennedy Administration’s Department of Justice to file suit against the City of Montgomery. In 1962, U.S. District Judge Frank M. Johnson Jr. ruled that segregation at Montgomery’s airport—and airports across the South—must end, marking a significant victory in the fight for equal access to public transportation.
“Montgomery Regional Airport is honored to serve as the site of this important commemoration,” said Brittney Jones-Dabney, Communications and Marketing Manager at Montgomery Regional Airport. “As an airport, we recognize that transportation has played a powerful role throughout our nation’s history—not only in connecting destinations, but also in advancing equality and opportunity. We are proud to partner with the Friends of the Freedom Rides Museum to ensure these remarkable stories continue to be shared with future generations.”
Dr. Valda Harris Montgomery, President of the Friends of the Freedom Rides Museum, whose family sheltered Freedom Riders in 1961, emphasized the importance of recognizing this lesser-known chapter of the movement.
“Many people know the Freedom Riders rode buses into danger. Few know the story of those who also confronted segregation in airports and air travel. Their courage deserves recognition, preservation, and remembrance.”
The event will feature remarks from local leaders and historians, reflections on the legacy of the Freedom Riders, and recognition of the individuals whose courage helped reshape America’s aviation landscape.
As the gateway to Alabama’s capital city, Montgomery Regional Airport is committed not only to connecting travelers to destinations around the world, but also to preserving the history that has shaped the community it proudly serves.
About Montgomery Regional Airport
Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM) is a key gateway to Alabama’s capital city, connecting passengers to daily flights offered by American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines to major hubs including Atlanta, Georgia (ATL); Charlotte, North Carolina (CLT); Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas (DFW); Washington, D.C. (DCA); and now Houston, Texas (IAH)—offering endless connections worldwide. With a commitment to excellence in customer service, safety, and community engagement, MGM continues to elevate the travel experience while driving regional connectivity and economic growth. For more information, visit flymgm.com.
###
07-24-2026 MGM Airport to Honor The Few Who Flew