Ever wondered if you're the only one having a bad
day? That was how I was feeling last week whilst looking at the public
facilities at some of the top UK Airports. I wanted to write an article
for my blog, so I went on to Cybertraveling. I have been in and out of
Gatwick for years but I didn't know of any place of interest outside
the perimeter fence.
I was pleasantly surprised to read about the Gatwick Aviation Museum.
Run as a charity, this is an exciting place, good enough for a family
outing. The museum is on the North West of Gatwick Airport very near
Charlwood village.
First I would like to say something about this fast expanding airport.
As the second largest airport in the United Kingdom, BAA Gatwick
Airport is also noted for being the world's busiest international
single-runway airport. Over the years, Gatwick has grown both in
stature and reputation. Current route network boasts of 250 worldwide
destinations and nearly 90 airline partners. Not a small achievement
for an airport with only two terminals and one runway.
There are plans to expand the airport through sustainable development.
This includes investment in facilities and services such as the air
passenger bridge (considered to be the world's largest), the extension
of the baggage claim area in the South Terminal and the further
development of car parks.
The Gatwick Aviation Museum is Peter Vallance's collection of aircraft
in Charlwood, Surrey, on the outskirts of Gatwick Airport. A museum
collection, this facility is supported by donations and gate
collections from visitors. For a long time this facility has tried to
attract public funding without success. With or without funding, this
place is a little gem.
The facility is attracting many flight and aviation enthusiasts from
within the UK and abroad as well. This far flung interest has seen the
facility receive international recognition. The Gatwick Aviation Museum
officially became a member of the European Aviation Preservation
Council in November 2003.
This Aviation Museum has a unique collection of British Aircraft from
the "golden age" of British aircraft manufacturing. From the end of
WWII until the 1970's British aircraft designers produced some of the
most innovative and advanced aircraft of the day.
The Gatwick Aviation Museum features a unique collection of British
Aircraft. In this collection there are examples from the major
manufacturers of this period. Amongst the list are classic names
including, English Electric, Avro, de Havilland, Hawker, Fairey,
Blackburn, Percival engineering companies. The models on display
include more than 20 planes ranging from the legendary Buccaneer,
Canberra, Ercoupe, Gannet, Harrier, Hunter F.51, Hunter T.7, Jaguar,
Lightning, Meteor, Pembroke, Provost, Sea Hawk, Sea Prince, Sea Vixen,
Shackleton, Venom, Victor Nose and Whirlwind
The display includes the legendary Jaguar. Britain and France developed
the Jaguar jointly from an initial concept of light trainer and
close-support aircraft. It was a major showcase during the Gulf War.
Many would remember the clips of this plane swooping down and dropping
bombs at supersonic speeds. This model is easily identifiable for its
desert pink colour and overwing Sidewinder missiles. The jet fighter
has been sold in many countries in Africa, Middle East, India and even
South America.
Visits to the Museum outside of the published times, must be confirmed
in advance. This ensures that someone is available to show you all of
the aspects of the museum and the exhibits. You can support this
facility by donating directly, visiting or by becoming a member.
Membership comes with regular newsletters, updates and entry throughout
your membership period. The money raised goes to supporting,
maintaining and restoring the aircraft.
Article Source: http://www.
articlesbase.com/travel-articles/this-summer-visit-gatwick-aviation-
museum-397735.html About the Author
Patrick is an expert Research and Travel
consultant. His current interest is in Gatwick Airport
Parking., Gatwick
Airport Hotels and I have a little hobby site safari news. |
