LOS ANGELES, CA.-(MARKET WIRE) Los Angeles International Airport's Flight Path Museum will celebrate its second anniversary on Wednesday, October 5, with a festive benefit saluting the centennial of the birth of pioneer aviator Howard Hughes. More than 400 guests are expected at the gala in the LAX Imperial Terminal on the airport's south perimeter.

The museum is a joint venture of the Flight Path Learning Center of Southern California, a nonprofit community group organized in 1995 to develop and promote the museum, and Los Angeles World Airports, the City agency which owns and operates LAX. The Hughes salute is Flight Path's ninth annual fund-raiser. Ticket information is available by calling (310) 215-5291.

Emphasizing Flight Path's educational mission, each gala features presentation of the Charles "Pete" Conrad Scholarship to a student planning a career in aviation or aerospace. The competitive selection is made by a panel of aviation professionals.

This year's gala will spotlight the legacy of Howard Hughes, according to Flight Path President Rowena Ake. Featured will be a model of the famed Hughes Flying Boat, popularly known as the Spruce Goose, as well as a unique oil painting of Hughes with the flying boat.

Also featured will be video highlights of the life of Hughes, including newsreel footage of the flying boat's only flight, with Hughes at the controls, at the Port of Long Beach in 1947. In addition, guests can view a unique collection of communications satellite models designed and manufactured by Hughes engineers and technicians.

"We are keeping formalities to a minimum," said Ake. "The brief program and buffet-style dinner will encourage guests to move around and enjoy our many new exhibits."

Flight Path features an array of aviation memorabilia, including airline pilot and flight attendant uniforms from Pan American, TWA and other airlines. A mural salutes the Centennial of Powered Flight and the 75th anniversary of LAX.

The Flight Path Museum is situated in the Imperial Terminal, 6661 W. Imperial Highway. It is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and the first Saturday of each month. Admission and parking are free. For driving and parking directions and other information call (310) 215-5291.