Community Initiatives
Dulles Plane Pull
The Dulles Plane Pull is still going strong after 30 years and continues to raise money for Special Olympics Virginia . The annual event , which provides an up-close view of aircraft and airport activities , is free and open to the public .
Since 1992 , the Dulles Plane Pull has been organized and sponsored by the Airports Authority ' s police department . Fundraising proceeds benefit Special Olympics Virginia athletes with intellectual disabilities . Over the past 30 years , the event has raised more than $ 3 million .
The highlight of the event is a fun and energetic competition to see which group can pull an airplane 12 feet in the shortest time . The Plane Pull pits teams of 25 people against an 82-ton FedEx Boeing 757 or United Airlines Boeing 737 airplane . Participants pull a long rope attached to the aircraft while spectators cheer them on .
The Chesapeake , Virginia , Sheriff ’ s Office won the Plane Pull competition again this year , moving the plane 12 feet in 5.6 seconds . The day ' s activities raised a record $ 440,000 to benefit Special Olympics Virginia and athletes with intellectual disabilities . Airports Authority leaders were on hand to present the check , including Chief Executive Officer Jack Potter and Vice President and Airport Manager of Washington Dulles International Airport , Richard Golinowski .
Other activities across the 17-acre event site includes static aircraft displays , a kid ’ s truck pull , a kids area with moon bounce area , a classic car show , fire truck rides , mobile lounge airport tours , community exhibitors , food and beverage sales and music performances .
Community Initiatives 61