A membership to The Museum of Flight is an excellent investment, particularly for families doing a deep dive into Pacific Northwest aviation history. Touring regional aerospace landmarks like the Boeing Everett Factory is perfectly complemented by the unlimited access a membership provides here. The interactive simulators, aerospace camps, and sprawling exhibit halls are massive hits with ten-year-olds, and the museum’s gift shop is fully stocked with detailed model kits and niche aviation collectibles.
If you plan to visit even twice in a year, the membership easily pays for itself.
Current Membership Levels (2026)
| Level | Annual Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Navigator | $100 | Two adults visiting 2+ times/year |
| Aviator | $140 | Families with children |
| Captain | $200 | Frequent travelers who visit other science museums |
| Flight Leader | $350 | Enthusiasts who attend events and bring guests |
| Barnstormer | $600 | Heavy supporters |
| Barnstormer Gold | $1,200 | Donors and aviation patrons |
What You Get
Navigator ($100)
The entry-level membership includes:
- Unlimited free admission for 2 adults.
- Member-only educational programs.
- Behind-the-scenes access opportunities.
- Free admission to participating West Museum Program partners.
- 15% discount in the Museum Store.
- Free shipping on online orders over $75.
- Discounts on simulator rides, movies, and ticketed events.
- Museum magazine and member newsletter.
Aviator ($140)
Everything above, plus:
- Free admission for your children or grandchildren under 18 when accompanied by a member.
- Early registration and discounts for Aerospace Camp programs.
Captain ($200)
This is where membership becomes much more valuable.
Additional benefits:
- ASTC Passport reciprocal membership.
- 4 guest passes.
The ASTC benefit can provide free admission to hundreds of science museums and science centers around the U.S. and internationally, making this level especially attractive if you travel often.
Higher Levels
The Flight Leader ($350), Barnstormer ($600), and Barnstormer Gold ($1,200) levels primarily add:
- More guest passes;
- Invitations to special events;
- Seafair viewing party access;
- Lounge rental discounts;
- Recognition in museum publications.
These are best viewed as support/donor tiers rather than value-focused memberships.
When Does Membership Pay for Itself?
Current admission:
- Adult: $29;
- Senior: $25;
- Youth: $21;
Members enter free.
Couple
Two adults:
- One visit = $58;
- Two visits = $116.
A Navigator membership costs $100.
Break-even: about 2 visits per year.
Family of Four
Two adults + two children:
- One visit ? $100;
An Aviator membership costs $140.
Break-even: roughly 1.5 visits. After a second visit you’re clearly ahead.
Discounts & Special Programs
You must purchase the membership in person at the museum’s Admission Desk to claim these specific discounts (remember to bring proper ID or proof of affiliation):
- Corporate & Industry: Boeing employees and retirees receive a 20% discount on memberships. Microsoft, Alaska Airlines, and US Military personnel get 10% off.
- Seniors (65+) & Students (18+): Receive 20% off the Navigator or Aviator membership levels.
- Public Assistance Program: A deeply discounted $29 Aviator membership is available for individuals and families receiving public or government assistance (such as SNAP, WIC, WA Apple Health, or Medicaid).
- Ticket Upgrades: If you purchase standard day tickets and decide you want to join, you can apply your admission receipt toward an annual membership. You just need to bring your receipt or call the Membership Office within 30 days of your visit to process the upgrade.
Occasionally, the museum runs seasonal promotions or gift membership discounts. For example, it has recently offered Father’s Day gift membership discounts (Sunday, June 21, 2026).
Our Recommendation
Buy the Navigator ($100) if:
- You and a spouse/partner will visit at least twice.
- You enjoy aircraft photography.
- You like revisiting exhibits throughout the year.
- You want store discounts and member events.
Buy the Aviator ($140) if:
- You have children.
- You expect even one return visit during the year.
Buy the Captain ($200) if:
- You travel around the U.S.
- You regularly visit science museums.
- You can use the ASTC reciprocal benefit.
For most aviation fans, Captain ($200) is the sweet spot because the ASTC reciprocal access and guest passes can easily exceed the extra $60 over Aviator.
Save on Seattle Attractions With CityPASS
If you plan to visit several Seattle attractions during your trip, a Seattle CityPASS can be one of the easiest ways to reduce sightseeing costs.
Currently, Seattle CityPASS includes admission to 5 attractions and can save visitors up to 47% compared to purchasing individual tickets. The pass includes the Space Needle and Seattle Aquarium, plus your choice of three additional attractions, including:
- Chihuly Garden and Glass;
- Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour;
- Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP);
- Woodland Park Zoo;
- Pacific Science Center.
For travelers with less time, the Seattle C3 Pass allows you to choose any 3 attractions and save up to 28%.
One detail many visitors overlook is that the Museum of Flight is available through the Seattle C3 Pass, making it a good option if you want to visit the museum along with two other major Seattle attractions. However, it is not included in the standard 5-attraction Seattle CityPASS.
Current prices:
- Seattle C3: Adult $108 / Child $89.
- Seattle CityPASS: Adult $139 / Child $119.
If The Museum of Flight is your main reason for visiting Seattle, a museum membership may provide better value for multiple visits. However, if you are exploring several attractions during a single trip, CityPASS can significantly reduce your overall sightseeing costs while simplifying ticket purchases and reservations.
