Airmarking has been the noble ambition of Ninety-Nines since the early part of the 20th century.

Long before GPS and digital mapping, pilots relied on visual navigation aids to find their way. One of the most impactful contributions The Ninety-Nines made to aviation was the Airmarking Program, a grassroots initiative that began in the 1930s to help pilots safely navigate across the country.

In the early days of aviation, cross-country flights were challenging due to the lack of reliable navigation tools. Pilots depended on landmarks, railroad tracks, and large ground markings to stay on course. Recognizing this need, The Ninety-Nines launched an effort to paint town names, airport identifiers, and compass roses on rooftops and open fields to serve as directional guides for aviators.

One of the pioneers of this initiative was Phoebe Omlie, an accomplished pilot and government official. In the 1930s, she worked with The Ninety-Nines and the Civil Aeronautics Administration (CAA) to create a national air marking system. With the help of local chapters and communities, The Ninety-Nines painted thousands of airmarks across the U.S., often braving extreme weather and difficult terrain to complete their work.

Today, it is mainly the Compass Rose Airmarking Program that is most visible today. Across airports nationwide, these beautifully painted 25- to 50-foot-wide compass roses help pilots calibrate their aircraft compasses while also serving as a striking tribute to aviation history and women in flight.

If you would like further information on airmarking, please contact our Airmarking Chairman.

You can see by the pictures that a compass rose is huge and requires coordinated team work. A compass rose usually requires two days to lay out the pattern and paint it.

More About Airmarking & Compass Rose Painting

Airmarking is one of the proud traditions of the Ninety-Nines. Local chapters of The Ninety-Nines organize painting events, often partnering with airport staff, aviation enthusiasts, and community volunteers to complete these large-scale projects. We've painted our compass rose on airports all over the world.  The Compass Rose enhances airport infustructure, providing a functional tool for pilots to check their compass accuracy. Bringing together members, airport staff, and aviation enthusiasts in a fun, hands-on project, to keep the long-standing tradition of airmarking alive while showcasing the role of women in aviation.

Get Involved!

Compass rose painting is a fantastic way to connect with fellow members, leave a lasting mark at airports, and celebrate the spirit of aviation. If your chapter is interested in organizing an airmarking project, reach out to The Ninety-Nines Airmarking Committee or your local airport to get started.