Prepare to be amazed! The
Science Museum
Flight Gallery is a must-see for anyone fascinated by the history of flight. This unique gallery, designed like a real aircraft hangar, showcases some of humanity’s most incredible achievements in aviation.
A Hidden Gem
London’s museums are always full of surprises, and the Flight Gallery is no exception. It’s a hidden gem that will leave you speechless.
A Flight of Fancy
Located on the third floor of the Science Museum, the Flight Gallery is a must-visit for anyone who loves planes and the thrill of flight. Don’t leave it to the last minute! You won’t want to miss this amazing experience if you’re already tired.
A Glimpse Into Aviation History
The Flight Gallery is a treasure trove of aviation history. This video takes you on a walk along the gantry level, offering a close-up view of the iconic aircraft on display.
Famous Flyers
There’s so much to see in the Flight Gallery, you could easily spend an entire day exploring it. Here are a few highlights:
- Spitfires and Hurricanes: These legendary fighter planes played a crucial role in the Battle of Britain during World War II. The Hurricane on display actually flew in the Battle of Dunkirk! This early model still features fabric-covered wings, a reminder of the pioneering days of aviation when aircraft were built from wood, fabric, and wire.
- Stuka Dive Bomber: The Stuka was the main adversary of the Spitfire and Hurricane during the war. This highly sophisticated aircraft pushed British engineers to make significant improvements to their own planes.
- Hawker P1127: This impressive aircraft is the predecessor of the modern Harrier jump jet. Dating back to the 1960s, it was the first aircraft to achieve vertical takeoff. Suspended in the hall with its thrusters in the hover position, the P1127 appears to be floating in mid-air.
- Boeing 747: You can’t miss this massive section of a passenger plane at the end of the gallery. It’s like the open jaws of a giant whale! This section comes from a plane built in 1974, and while it was once the largest passenger plane, it’s been surpassed by the Airbus.
- Montgolfier Balloon: As you enter the Flight Gallery, you’ll see a replica of the first public demonstration balloon by the Montgolfier brothers in 1783. Although it didn’t carry passengers, this balloon proved that balloon flight was possible by reaching 6,000 feet and staying in the air for 10 minutes.
An Unforgettable Experience
I’m a seasoned museum visitor, so I’m not easily impressed. But the Flight Gallery left me speechless. The gallery is beautifully lit, with spotlights highlighting the incredible exhibits.
It’s designed for everyone. The elevated gantry gives you a great view of the hanging aircraft, while the open ground floor provides easy access for everyone, including families with strollers and wheelchair users.
The smell of oil in the air adds to the authentic experience of being surrounded by incredible machines. Even if you’re not a die-hard aircraft enthusiast, the Flight Gallery will capture your imagination. The rows of engines are fascinating in their own right, showcasing the evolution of aircraft design and development.
Beyond the Planes
In addition to the aircraft and engines, the Flight Gallery also features a collection of smaller exhibits that bring aviation history to life: medals, flying helmets and masks, aircraft models, and even flight-related gift items like decorated snuff boxes and teapots.
Don’t Miss It!
The Flight Gallery is a must-see during your visit to the
Science Museum
. It’s a unique and unforgettable experience that will leave you inspired by the history of flight.
Back to the Science Museum Page
