Santa Clara Glider
John J Montgomery 1905 Santa Clara Glider (Replica)
Built in 1905, this John Montgomery glider had tandem wings. It was flown from Aptos California in rather an unorthodox manner suspended from a hot air balloon that rose to 4,000 ft. altitude. The glider was cut loose and glided to the ground. There were several successful flights lasting up to 13 minutes in duration. The last flight ended in tragedy due to an entanglement with the balloon ropes damaging the glider causing it to plunge to earth. Daniel J. Malone, one of Montgomery’s collaborators, a pilot and acrobat, was flying the Santa Clara at the time and was killed.
Today’s Schedule
Today’s Schedule
The Hiller Aviation Museum is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. The museum is closed for Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.
Upcoming Events
Open Cockpit Day
Open Cockpit Day
Join us for a unique opportunity to gain a pilot's eye perspective on many of the Hiller Aviation Museum's aircraft.
Flight Simulator Rally
Flight Simulator Rally
The Flight Simulator Rally, held monthly in the Hiller Aviation Museum’s Flight Sim Zone, presents participants with a specific mission in simulated flight.