If you are traveling through Miami International Airport (MIA) today, amid the usual hustle of rolling suitcases and gate announcements, you might stumble upon a stunning new splash of color and history.
Today marked a significant moment for Miami’s cultural and aviation heritage with the official unveiling of the newest mural installed as part of the “Wings to Cities: The Vision of Glenn Curtiss” initiative.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony this morning was more than just an art opening; it was a bridge connecting Miami’s vibrant present with its pioneering past, honoring the man many consider the “Godfather” of local aviation: Glenn Hammond Curtiss. Oh, and Glenn Curtiss is also the “Father” of three great local cities: Hialeah, Miami Springs, and Opa-Locka.
More Than Just Paint on a Wall
Located on Concourse E (Arrivals Level, near Door 11, Pre-security) where thousands of international and domestic travelers pass daily, the new mural is a visual feast.
While the specific details of the artwork are best experienced in person, the mural shares Curtiss’ greatest legacies from aviation to building cities.
Who Was Glenn Curtiss?
For those unfamiliar with the name, Glenn Curtiss is perhaps the most important aviator you might not know enough about. While the Wright Brothers are credited with the first flight, Curtiss is often credited with creating the aviation industry.
His connection to Miami is profound. Curtiss didn’t just fly here; he built here.
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The Father of Naval Aviation: He convinced the skeptical US Navy that airplanes could take off from and land on ships, forever changing military history.
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Developing the Region: Curtiss was a massive real estate developer in the 1920s. He founded the cities of Miami Springs, Hialeah, and Opa-locka.
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The First Airports: He established some of the earliest airfields in the region, laying the groundwork for what would eventually become one of the busiest aviation hubs in the world—MIA.
Today’s unveiling brings his legacy back to the forefront of the airport and communities he helped shape.
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and other local government leaders gathered at Miami International Airport to unveil a new wall mural honoring pioneering aviator and land developer Glenn Curtiss, who founded the cities of Hialeah, Miami Springs, and Opa-locka – each currently celebrating centennial anniversaries.
In partnership with the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau and other local cultural organizations, From Wings to Cities: The Vision of Glenn Curtiss, is now on display through April 1, 2026, at MIA’s Connecting Communities Wall on the arrivals level near door 11. The mural features historic images and milestones of each city over the past 100 years.
“I’m thrilled to see this mural on display at MIA, honoring the legacy of Glenn Curtiss and the centennial anniversaries of Hialeah, Miami Springs, and Opa-locka,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “As MIA continues its transformation, installations like this reflect our commitment to enhancing the passenger experience by showcasing the unique culture and history of Miami-Dade County from the moment visitors arrive.”
Long before Miami-Dade County became a global gateway, Curtiss imagined communities built around innovation, mobility, and modern living – where aviation would redefine how people connected to place and to one another. Working with fellow pioneers, Curtiss played a defining role in founding Hialeah in 1925 and Miami Springs and Opa-locka in 1926.
Each reflects a different expression of his ambition and belief in planned communities designed for the future.
Hialeah, envisioned as “The City of Progress,” has grown into a dynamic center of industry and culture, shaped in large part by its immigrant community.
Opa-locka captured the imagination through its Moorish Revival style and Arabian Nights–inspired identity, making it one of the most distinctively planned cities in the nation.
Miami Springs emerged as a carefully designed residential oasis, known for its Pueblo Revival architecture and human-scale charm.
Art installation will be displayed through April 1, 2026. Hurry to see it in person!
