Exhibits & Aircraft Collection
Explore one of the UK’s most unique aviation collections, featuring historic aircraft cockpits, experimental test equipment, simulators and artefacts spanning over a century of British aviation.
01 AIRCRAFT COLLECTION
Fast Jets Collection
Fast jets including Lightning, Jaguar, Harrier and Tornado form a major part of the Boscombe Down Aviation Collection. Many of these aircraft were used in testing, development and training roles at Boscombe Down, playing an important part in the advancement of British aviation.
Visitors can view a range of Cold War era aircraft and cockpits up close, offering a fascinating insight into the technology and design of military aircraft during the jet age.
Explore highlights from the fast jet collection:
- Tornado
- Jaguar GR1
- Sea Harrier
- Hawk T1
- English Electric Lightning P1
- Plus other fast jet exhibits
02 first world war AVIATION
Royal Flying Corps Collection
This exceptional World War One collection tells the story of the
Royal Flying Corps and its courageous airmen flying primitive
biplanes in the bloody battles of 1914–18 over the trenches.
The display includes a stunning range of original uniforms, medals and equipment, together with historical information from one of the most important periods in aviation history, and is considered one of the most extensive displays of Royal Flying Corps and First World War aviation artefacts in the UK.
- Royal Flying Corps history
- WW1 aviation artefacts
- Original equipment and displays
- Early aircraft technology
03 Interactive Experience
Cockpits & Simulators
One of the most unique aspects of the Collection is the opportunity to get up close to real aircraft cockpits. Visitors can climb into a range of historic aircraft cockpits and experience the layout and controls used by RAF pilots.
The museum also features four flight simulators, allowing visitors to experience the challenges of flying military aircraft in an interactive environment.
- Historic aircraft cockpits
- Hands-on aviation experiences
- Interactive flight simulators
- RAF pilot training environments
04 COLLECTION HIGHLIGHTS
Other Exhibits
Beyond the aircraft and cockpits, the Collection also includes a wide range of aviation-related displays that help tell the broader story of flight, operations, safety, and support services. These exhibits highlight the people, equipment, and technologies that have shaped military and experimental aviation over the years.
Highlights include:
- Helicopters (4 airframes)
- A unique display on the history and operation of the Royal Observer Corps (ROC)
- Many engine types, including radial piston, centrifugal jet, axial flow jet, and a Tornado RB199
- Six different ejection seats and other flying safety equipement through the ages
- Seven marks of Drone used by UK forces
- Restoration Area
See the Collection for Yourself
From fast jets and helicopters to cockpits, engines, and historic displays, there is even more to discover in person at Boscombe Down Aviation Collection.
Plan Your Visit
