The Stampe and Vertongen Museum is an aviation museum in Antwerp, Belgium, dedicated to the history of Belgian aviation, particularly the legacy of the Stampe and Vertongen aircraft manufacturing company. Established in the 1920s, Stampe and Vertongen was one of Belgium’s foremost aircraft manufacturers, known for designing and producing training aircraft that became popular with flight schools and air forces in Belgium and other countries. The museum is located at Antwerp International Airport and celebrates the achievements of the company and Belgian aviation history as a whole.

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Stampe and Vertongen Museum

Luchthavenlei

Luchthaven Antwerpen-Deurne

Deurne B-2100

Belgium

www.stampe.be

paul.soons@pandora.be

+32 474 877 366

Saturday, Sunday  14:00 – 17:00

Admission fee

Gift shop

By public Transport:

There are regular connections via intercity and international trains to Antwerp/Berchem station, and fast bus connections between the station and Antwerp Airport via line 14 direction Mortsel. The museum is situated at the left site of the Airport’s main entry.

By Car from Antwerpen:

• On Antwerp Ring take exit 3 Borgerhout and keep to the right.
• Left at main intersection, then follow ‘Binnensingel’ in the direction of Singel Zuid until you reach intersection at Borsbeekse bridge (right next to Post office sorting centre).
• Turn left and on other side of Borsbeekse bridge turn right into Diksmuidelaan.
• Keep on this road which will lead you in a few minutes to Antwerp International Airport.
• The museum is situated at the left site of the Airport’s main entry.

Aircraft collection

N986RS PH-EBF/155/17 N903AC/O-BOBE N111EV/17 MT-13 N216DM N2262G N128CX/14 N4109C NX377WW N2257J OO-GWC V-28 OO-EIR/ V4 OO-BPL/52 OO-GWB/29 OO-GWD/18 OO-PAX/5 OO-MON/V-30 OO-GWA/66 G-AIYG OO-KAT NC29903 256978

Albatros D.Va Fokker Dr.1 Fokker D.VII Fokker D.VIII Fouga CM170R Magister Fouga CM170R Magister Nieuport 24 Nieuport 28 North American T-6G Texan North American T-28B Trojan Sopwith F.1 Camel Stampe Vertongen SV.4A Stampe Vertongen SV.4B Stampe Vertongen SV.4B Stampe Vertongen SV.4B Stampe Vertongen SV.4B Stampe Vertongen SV.4B Stampe Vertongen SV.4B Stampe Vertongen SV.4B Stampe Vertongen SV.4C Stampe Vertongen SV.4C Stampe Vertongen SV.4E Waco UPF-7 V-1 Flying Bomb

Events

• Two times a year: engines on the blocks.
• Ones a year: Stampe & Vertongen Fly-in

During the winterperiode is a Spitfire (Duxford) on display in the Stampe & Vertongen museum

Key Exhibits and Features

1. Stampe SV.4 Aircraft: The museum’s main attraction is the Stampe SV.4, a classic biplane developed by Stampe and Vertongen in the 1930s. This aircraft became iconic as a training aircraft and aerobatics plane, known for its agility and reliability. The museum houses several examples of the SV.4, many of which are in flying condition, allowing for demonstration flights during special events. Visitors can get a close-up look at these meticulously restored biplanes and learn about their technical features and history.
2. History of Stampe and Vertongen: The museum delves into the story of founders Jean Stampe and Maurice Vertongen, who started the company in Antwerp. The exhibits cover the company’s evolution, from its early days producing aircraft for World War I pilots to becoming a well-regarded manufacturer of civilian and military aircraft. Archival documents, photographs, and models help illustrate the impact of Stampe and Vertongen on Belgian aviation.
3. World War II and Resistance: During World War II, Stampe and Vertongen’s operations were disrupted by the German occupation of Belgium. The museum features displays on how the company adapted and the role its aircraft played in training pilots for resistance efforts. The SV.4 was used by Allied forces post-war, which contributed to its popularity in both military and civilian aviation circles.
4. Restoration and Conservation Workshop: The museum includes a restoration workshop where visitors can see volunteers working on aircraft restoration projects. This behind-the-scenes view into the process of conserving and maintaining historic aircraft is a unique experience, showcasing the dedication involved in keeping these vintage planes airworthy. The museum is known for its ongoing commitment to preserving Belgium’s aviation heritage.
5. Early Belgian Aviation and Pioneers: The museum also explores the broader history of Belgian aviation, including displays on early aviation pioneers who contributed to flight innovation. Artifacts and exhibits on pilots, engineers, and other influential figures highlight Belgium’s contributions to early aviation and aircraft technology, offering context for Stampe and Vertongen’s achievements.
6. Flight Demonstrations and Air Shows: On special occasions, the museum organizes flight demonstrations featuring the Stampe SV.4 and other vintage aircraft. These events are highlights for aviation enthusiasts, as they provide a rare opportunity to see historic planes in action, piloted by experienced aviators. The air shows celebrate the legacy of Stampe and Vertongen and draw large crowds each year.
7. Educational Programs and Guided Tours: The museum offers guided tours and educational programs for visitors of all ages, including students and aviation enthusiasts. These programs are designed to inspire interest in aviation history and engineering, with interactive exhibits that explain the principles of flight, aircraft design, and aerodynamics.

Visiting the Stampe and Vertongen Museum

Located at Antwerp International Airport, the Stampe and Vertongen Museum is easy to reach for visitors to Belgium. It’s an ideal destination for those interested in vintage aviation, engineering, and Belgium’s role in the development of early aircraft. The museum’s dedication to preserving the legacy of Stampe and Vertongen makes it an important institution for aviation history, and its events, especially the air shows, offer a dynamic experience for visitors.

Photos Rob Vogelaar