Kalamazoo, Michigan, USA: January 30, 2004: The Air Zoo in Kalamazoo, Michigan, will pay tribute to the history of flight with the opening of an interactive aviation museum this May. The new Air Zoo will feature more than 80 vintage aircraft, character actors in the roles of famous aviators, amusement rides, Smithsonian exhibitions and 4-D theaters, which combine 3-D filmmaking with other special effects.

The new 120,000-square-foot facility, which nearly doubles the space of the current campus, will allow the Air Zoo to educate visitors about aviation through hands-on, multi-sensory experiences.

The new Air Zoo will feature the largest known indoor mural. Equivalent to three football fields in length, "Century of Flight" is the creation of renowned aviation artist Rick Herter. The 25,000-square-foot, hand-painted mural depicts major moments in aviation history from the first hot air balloon ride to journeys into space.

Another highlight is the Air Zoo's 4-D theater presentation, "Missions, Salute to Heroes," which tells the compelling story of young airmen flying deep into the heart of World War II Germany in 1943. Visitors will experience startling in-theater effects such as shaking seats and simulated anti-aircraft fire.

The Air Zoo also features a collection of thousands of artifacts and more than 80 vintage aircraft, including a rare SR-71B Blackbird spy plane, which holds the record for speed and altitude.

"There will always be something new to see," Ellis says. "Because of our partnership with the Smithsonian Institution, the Air Zoo has access to over 142 million artifacts and an endless source of world-famous traveling exhibitions."

The first exhibition sponsored by the Smithsonian Institution is "Hubble Space Telescope: New Views of the Universe."The exhibition allows visitors to learn about the telescope's history, design and purpose, as well as gain a greater understanding of planets, stars, galaxies and intergalactic space.

"We're excited to see the folks at the Air Zoo turn their dream into a reality," says Aaron Glavas, affiliations coordinator for the Smithsonian Institution.

"The new Air Zoo will give people a dramatic, first-hand look at the fascinating world of aviation and aeronautics."

The opening of the new Air Zoo is likely to make Kalamazoo, and the state of Michigan, a destination spot for thousands of tourists. The Air Zoo predicts the museum will draw 300,000 visitors annually.

The Air Zoo is a full-service attraction, offering a restaurant, gift shop and banquet facilities. It will open daily at 10 a.m. General admission is $19.50 for adults, $17.50 for seniors 60-plus and $15.50 for children, aged 6 to 12.

Children ages 5 and under enter free. Group rates are available for advanced purchase.