The next time you're asked to pick up a friend or relative at Los Angeles International Airport, stop groaning and jump at the chance to visit the Flight Path Learning Center. Flight Path is an educational facility and museum located in the Imperial Terminal at LAX.

Initially, Flight Path came to LAX as part of the 75th anniversary celebration of the airport and the 100th anniversary of the Wright Brothers' first powered flight. It started out with sidewalk plaques placed in the airport's business district. The plaques saluted aviation organizations and pioneers and highlighted key aviation-related locations.

Today, the "Flight Path" is just one aspect of the Learning Center at LAX. The museum now provides historical exhibits, research facilities and educational tours and programs. There are also special community events held at the aviation museum throughout the year.

The Flight Path Learning Center at Lax is unique in more ways than one. First, it is the only museum, learning and research center located at a major airport. It is also unique in that it focuses on the historical significance of civil aviation in Southern California and how it has contributed to the region's development.

Exhibits at the Flight Path Learning Center Museum include aircraft models, photographs, aviation uniforms and other artifacts related to aircraft manufacturers, airlines and the airport's history. Items included in the exhibits are largely sourced from private collections. Many of the museum's exhibits contain items that would be otherwise be unavailable for viewing and have never before been included in public displays.

Another fascinating exhibit at the Museum is a large-scale model of the Curtiss P-6E Hawk bi-plane. This biplane is modeled on a 1930's era US Army Air Corps aircraft. This large model biplane is on permanent display.

With its 6-foot, double-deck wingspan and authentic detail, this model is sure to excite kids and aviation enthusiasts of all ages. It even has a working engine and was flown by remote control in the past. The Hawk is just one of the models on display at the Flight Path Learning Center Museum.

In addition to permanent displays, Flight Path also has changing displays at the Museum. Currently, a huge panoramic mural that salutes the 100th anniversary of the Wright Brothers' first flight and the 75th anniversary of LAX is on display. This mural includes authentic historic photographs related to the early history of aviation in Southern California.

You can visit the Flight Path Learning Center Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm. There is no admission charge. The William A. Schoneberger Research Library is open during Flight Path regular operating hours. Researchers should call ahead to be sure the materials they need and staff assistance are available.

The Museum is located at 6661 W. Imperial Highway in the LAX Imperial Terminal on the south side of the airport. Designated Free Parking is available adjacent to the Flight Path.

The Flight Path Learning Center Museum is the perfect place to wait for a cell phone call to pick up an arrival at the airport. Depending on your interest in aviation, plan to allow yourself at least ½ hour to an hour to explore the Museum's exhibits.