Florida Air Museum is in Lakeland, FL, and is a non-profit organization that is “dedicated to the preservation of aviation history.” The Museum has over 40 aircraft on display, as well as several aviation-related exhibits. Featuring engaging displays of unique designs, classics, ultra-lights, antiques, and warbirds, the Museum is a great place for visitors of all ages to learn about the fascinating world of aviation.
The museum pays tribute to the history and development of flight, with exhibits about aviation pioneers including Howard Hughes, early air racers, Floridians, and others who have made an impact on the world of aviation. The Museum also has an education program that offers classes, camps, tours, seminars, and speaker events for all ages. With a shared love of aviation and flight, the museum expands and preserves the knowledge of this fascinating world for everyone.
History of Florida Air Museum
The Museum was founded in 1981 by a group of local aviation enthusiasts. The first aircraft on display was a Piper Cub, and the Museum has since grown to include over 40 aircraft from a variety of manufacturers. The Museum is housed in a renovated warehouse and features two large hangers, a conference room, and an outdoor patio area.
Popular Exhibits of Florida Air Museum
Howard Hughes
Howard R. Hughes’ private aircraft collection is housed at the Florida Air Museum. Visitors to the museum will view unusual objects such as the flying suit and oxygen mask that Mr. Hughes used on his round-the-world voyage.
Florida Aviation History
Florida has long been a popular destination for aviation and aerospace aficionados owing to its favorable flying conditions all year. Find out more about the historic journey between Florida’s St. Petersburg and Tampa, the first-ever regular commercial passenger flight in history.
The Leading Edge
Explore a hands-on display with examples of fixed and variable pitch propellers from the past, present, and future.
Pioneers and Air Show Performers
The International Council of AirShows Hall of Fame is included, along with artifacts from notable pilots including Bob Hoover, Howie O’Keefe, The Red Baron Flight Squadron, and Jessie Woods.
Static Displays
There are several aircraft on display for visitors to see up close and personal, including The SeaDart, Vertical Riser, Tomcat, C-47, and Pietenpol.
Innovations in Propulsion
The Florida Air Museum’s collection of engines showcases technological advancements over the past 100 years. The interactive Pratt & Whitney R-4360 Wasp Major and the complex Ion Engine used by spaceships exploring deep space are just two of the incredible engines on display.
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