Which specific date is celebrated as the Naval Aviation birthday?

The Naval Aviation birthday is celebrated on May 8, 1911. This date marks the first official recognition of naval aviation when the U.S. Navy conducted its first official flight operation using a heavier-than-air aircraft. On that day, a Curtiss Model E hydroplane was launched from the USS Pennsylvania, which underscored the strategic importance of aviation in naval operations. The event is considered a pivotal moment in the history of naval aviation, leading to the development of a dedicated naval aviator community and the integration of aircraft into naval warfare tactics. Understanding this historical context illustrates the significance of May 8, 1911, as a foundational date for naval aviation in the United States.