100 Years of Flight: How Pasco Helped Launch Commercial Aviation

A century ago, the skies over Pasco, Washington, witnessed a quiet revolution that would transform global communication and travel. This year, the Tri-Cities proudly marks 100 years since the first airmail flight changed the course of aviation history.

The story begins with Walter Varney, a former World War I pilot, who took a bold leap into uncharted skies. In 1926, Varney secured the first U.S. government contract to deliver mail by air as a private citizen—a feat no one else dared attempt at the time. This pioneering move laid the foundation for what would later evolve into a global airline giant.

“Walter Varney bid on a contract no one else touched, and it became the start of something global,” explained Nathan Hall, chair of the Commercial Aviation Centennial Committee. “That mail flight in Pasco wasn’t just a delivery—it was the beginning of commercial aviation as we know it.”

Malin Bergstrom, volunteer president of the Pasco Aviation Museum, reflected on the significance of this historic moment. “It’s amazing to think that it all began with a small plane flying mail in our hometown. That first contracted mail flight was the seed from which modern commercial aviation grew.”

Now, 100 years later, the focus shifts to inspiring the next generation. “There are abundant opportunities for young people—regardless of their background—to find meaningful careers in aviation,” said Hall.

While air travel has become second nature to modern society, its roots remain grounded in daring innovation. Bergstrom reminded the community, “The ability to fly anywhere in the world is still a marvel. We should never forget how far we’ve come—from that first mail flight to today’s global aviation network.”

As the community reflects on this milestone, it also celebrates the role Pasco played in launching a movement that would eventually connect the world.

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