In History

Boscombe Down Aviation Collection

A Volunteer’s Story by Gerry Smyth, Boscombe Down Aviation Collection

It started, for me, on a misty July morning back in 2012, when all the aircraft were moved from Boscombe Down, six miles down the road to a new home at Old Sarum under police escort. This was nothing to do with national security, just the business of avoiding the rush hour.

Once the aircraft were safely installed in the new hangar, the work started. The show casing of the museum and the skilled work of restoration is carried out by volunteers wielding different skills. From guiding visitors and ensuring their safety to repairs and restoration, these volunteers enable the museum to go from strength to strength.

The expansion of the museum and the restoration and presentation of the aircraft relies on the availability of volunteers. From heavy metal work and welding skills forming frames and support stands, to delicate electrical rewiring - fabricating complex shapes using fibre glass materials and most of all, light alloy repairs and manufacture, If we haven’t got it then we make it!

For children with ambitions to become a pilot, this museum offers a unique opportunity to kick start these ambitions. The BDAC offers a ‘hands on’ approach. The visitor, young and old, can sit in most cockpits and handle the aircraft controls and switches, dress up in authentic flying clothing and wear fighter pilot helmets while listening to the local airfield radio in real time. The visitor can sit solo in a fighter jet cockpit or side by side in training aircraft. Passenger aircraft can accommodate whole families. If you should want to dream of becoming a helicopter pilot, then we can provide that also.

As long as you walk and not run, there are very few restrictions in our museum.

Our aim is to preserve the past for the future. Come along and we will show you.

Related

Boscombe Down Aviation Collection
Museum
Boscombe Down Aviation Collection

Collection of aircraft, cockpits, replicas and models weapons and trials equipment to show the story of flight and flight test in the UK. The cockpits are mostly open and you can sit in and use the controls.

10 Comments

Comments

  1. Jasmin Gibson
    These volunteers help the museum to grow, from guiding guests and guaranteeing their safety to repairs and restoration. https://drift-hunters.io
  2. Germ12an
    Hey guys. Want to play in a casino, but are afraid of losing all your money? Try to play proven games that are very easy to win. I personally like blackjack, it's not very complicated rules and it's up to you to win https://mostbet-az-yukle.com/casino/ . Here is by the way the best representative of the casino if you're interested
  4. Minsipes
    Furthermore, Crickex App offers https://crckxbet.com/app/ a wide range of betting options to cater to all types of cricket enthusiasts. Whether you prefer traditional match betting, player performance betting, or even live betting, we have it all covered.
  5. Kimbell632
    A Volunteer’s Story the narrative unfolds around a dedicated individual contributing selflessly to a cause. Amid the recounting of impactful experiences, the volunteer reflects on the organization's commitment to excellence, emphasizing the significance of their ISO 27001 certification. Lets check https://nicolsonbray.com/insights/articles/the-complete-guide-to-becoming-iso-27001-certified and gain more things about cyber security. This certification underscores the organization's dedication to robust information security management systems, ensuring the safeguarding of sensitive data. The volunteer's tale highlights not only the personal growth gained through volunteering but also the importance of trusted systems in place, symbolized by the ISO 27001 certification, instilling confidence in volunteers and beneficiaries alike.
  6. SharonM896
    For prompt and reliable AC repair in Kyle TX, look no further than Grande Air Solutions. Our expert technicians are dedicated to restoring your comfort efficiently and effectively. Whether it's a minor fix or a major overhaul, we've got you covered with our top-notch services. Trust us to diagnose and resolve any cooling system issues promptly, ensuring your home stays cool and comfortable year-round. Visit https://grandeairsolutions.com/service-areas/ac-repair-round-rock/ to learn more about our comprehensive AC repair solutions.
  7. Bonnie B. Lovell
    A well-liked online sports game called https://penaltyshooters.io centers on the exciting element of soccer penalties. This game, created by 10x10games, tests players' shooting and goalkeeping prowess while simulating the stress and excitement of penalty shootouts.
  8. WillM123
    I remember going here as a kid and loving it. I was obsessed with planes and getting to sit in the cockpits and pretending I was a pilot was brilliant. Maybe I should try and convince https://carescribe.io/ to let us go here on our next work trip. Although I doubt that will happen ha!
  9. DRichards203
    Financial services encompass a broad range of offerings including banking, investments, insurance, and financial planning. One of the key factors that distinguish successful financial institutions is their dedication to customer satisfaction. Also, you can check out https://www.pissedconsumer.com/company/anderson-brothers-bank/customer-service.html and get some of the latest things related to customer service. For example, Anderson Brothers Bank's customer service is renowned for its personalized approach, ensuring that every client receives tailored solutions. Whether customers are seeking loans, managing accounts, or planning for retirement, the bank's knowledgeable staff strives to provide prompt and friendly assistance. In today's competitive financial landscape, excellent customer service is not just a benefit, but a necessity to foster trust and build long-lasting relationships with clients.

Leave a Reply