Electric-powered aviation takes flight in new documentary premiering Oct. 1
“The Pulitzer Electric Air Race,” a documentary about the aircraft, pilots and innovators ushering in the era of electric-powered flight, will have its area premiere on Oct. 1.
The film, which had its world premiere at the Museum of Flight in Seattle, is by Susan Roe Musacchio, a local entrepreneur, filmmaker and third-generation aviator. She was on hand in October 2025 in Springfield, Ohio, when three electric-powered aircraft competed in a new iteration of the Pulitzer Trophy Races, which were held in the 1920s.
Just after World War I, Americans were eager for the thrills and chills of air races. Aerial combat had been a feature of the war, and pilots became folk heroes. To demonstrate that aviation was here to stay, newspaper publisher Ralph Pulitzer (son of newspaper magnate Joseph) sponsored air races that came to be known as the Pulitzer Trophy Races. The last one was held in 1925.
Until a century later.
“For more than a century, aviation has advanced because people were willing to imagine a different way to fly,” Musacchio said. “Electric aviation is one of those moments. The technology is no longer just an idea; it’s flying. This film invites people to see what’s happening now and join the conversation about where flight goes next.”
The documentary will be shown at the Harper College Learning and Career Center, 1375 S. Wolf Road, Prospect Heights. The 6 p.m. screening will be followed by a panel discussion at 6:30 p.m. with some of the leaders of the electric aviation movement. The event is free and open to the public.
“In 1925, daring pilots raced roaring engines for speed and glory. In 2025, pioneers gathered again to compete with clean, quiet and sustainable aircraft,” Musacchio said. “Through rare archival footage, personal stories and the voices of modern visionaries, the film captures the spirit of competition, progress and imagination that defines aviation.”
The panel discussion will feature Chicago-area aviation leaders discussing electric aircraft, drones, advanced air mobility and the infrastructure needed to support this emerging aviation ecosystem. Musacchio, founder of Aviatrix Company, will be joined by Dan Mojica, executive director of Vertiport Chicago; Pat Carr, Vertiport Tinley Park; and Ryan Walsh, Valqari Drone.
“The program is intended for the aviation community, as well as students, educators, technology professionals, business leaders and anyone interested in the future of transportation,” Musacchio said.
Free and open to the public, the event is hosted by Aviatrix Company, GW Aviation, Vertiport Chicago, Chicago Executive Pilots’ Association and Valqari.