CANOPEE – Conservatoire d’Aéronefs non Opérationnels Préservés et Exposés is a specialized aviation museum in France dedicated to preserving and displaying non-operational aircraft. The museum focuses on historical aircraft that are no longer in service but are preserved for their cultural and historical significance. It is an important repository for aircraft that have played key roles in aviation history, offering insight into both the technological evolution of aviation and the stories behind the planes.
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CANOPEE – Conservatoire d’Aeronefs non Operationnels Preserves et Exposes
Base Aerienne Chateaudun BA 279
route d’Orleans
28205 Chateaudun
william-smith@club-internet.fr
For visits, contact william-smith@club-internet.fr
Aircraft collection
| 2029/67-CE
E66 191 218 124 231/2-SC 278/8-MB 10/12-ZD 41/30-FG 49/30-MQ 602 225/30-SO 206/2-FM 247/DQ 277 7/2-FD 429 513 534/3-XB 549/4-BF 303/33-TM 360/33-TI 367/33-TP 1/AP 15/132/BA 518/5-OM 80/103-LI 337/116-BF 278/8-MB 182/339-JA 59/12-ZS 79/10-RH 790/CW 498/312-UQ 5318/UF 464 486 538 18658/314-YG 285/43-BO 26/128-VP 118/VB 56-3380/ FW-380 171 89/AZ 161/DJ 52-9117/1-EQ A120/7-HL A154/7-HL A43 A87 E12/339-WI E22/7- HB SKY479 615/92-AK 308/30-MC 54/315-VZ F221/GS R203/64-GC | Aerospatiale SA319B Alouette III
Dassault Dornier Alpha Jet E Dassault MD312 Flamand II Dassault MD312 Flamand II Dassault MD315 Flamand I Dassault MD450B Ouragan Dassault MD454 Mystere IVA Dassault Mirage F1C Dassault Mirage F1C Dassault Mirage F1C Dassault Mirage F1CR Dassault Mirage F1CT Dassault Mirage IIIB Dassault Mirage IIIB-RV Dassault Mirage IIIB-RV Dassault Mirage IIIC Dassault Mirage IIIE Dassault Mirage IIIE Dassault Mirage IIIE Dassault Mirage IIIE Dassault Mirage IIIR Dassault Mirage IIIRD Dassault Mirage IIIRD Dassault Mirage IVA Dassault Mirage 5F Dassault Mirage 2000B Dassault Mirage 2000C Dassault Mirage 2000N Dassault Mystere 4A Dassault Mystere (Falcon) 20SP Dassault Super-Mystere B.2 Dassault Super-Mystere B.2 de Havilland DHC-6 Twin-Otter Embraer EMB312F Tucano Eurocopter AS355F1 Ecureuil II Fouga CM170R Magister Fouga CM170R Magister Fouga CM170R Magister Lockheed T-33A Max-Holste MH1521M Broussard Morane-Saulnier MS760 Paris Mudry CAP 10B North American F-I00D Super Sabre Nord 2501 Noratlas Nord 262A Fregate Pilatus B4-PC11 glider Republic F-84F Thunderstreak SEPECAT Jaguar A SEPECAT Jaguar A SEPECAT Jaguar A SEPECAT Jaguar A SEPECAT Jaguar E SEPECAT Jaguar E Sikorsky H-34A Choctaw SNCASO Vautour 2B SNCASO Vautour 2N SOCATA TB-30 Epsilon Transall C-160G Transall C-160R |
Key Highlights:
1. Aircraft Collection
The CANOPEE – Conservatoire d’Aéronefs non Opérationnels Préservés et Exposés collection mainly consists of non-operational aircraft, which includes:
- Military Aircraft: Many of the planes in the collection are military aircraft that served in various roles during the 20th century, particularly from the post-World War II era.
- Civilian Aircraft: The CANOPEE museum may also house civilian aircraft, some of which played significant roles in the early years of commercial aviation.
- Aircraft from Various Eras: The collection spans several decades, featuring aircraft from the post-WWII period to more recent aircraft, each showcasing different technologies and designs.
2. Preservation and Restoration
- Aircraft Preservation: As the name suggests, the museum is dedicated to preserving aircraft that are no longer in active service. Many of these planes are carefully restored or maintained to ensure they remain in good condition, allowing them to be displayed to the public for educational purposes.
- Exhibits of Aircraft Evolution: Visitors can see the development of aviation technologies as represented by the various aircraft on display. The museum often focuses on the design, use, and significance of each aircraft in its historical context.
3. Educational Role
- The CANOPEE museum plays an important role in educating the public about aviation history, including:
- Historical Context: Understanding the role of each aircraft in its era, whether during military conflicts or in the evolution of civil aviation.
- Technological Innovation: Visitors can learn about the technological advancements that made these aircraft possible, including changes in aerodynamics, engines, and materials.
- Educational Programs: CANOPEE often offers guided tours, workshops, and other educational events to help visitors learn more about aviation and aircraft preservation.
4. Visitor Experience
- Exhibits and Displays: The CANOPEE museum offers static displays of aircraft, often arranged to show off different aspects of aviation history, from military planes to civilian aircraft.
- Historical Narratives: Information panels, multimedia displays, and sometimes interactive exhibits help visitors understand the broader historical context behind each aircraft.
- Access to Aircraft: Depending on the museum’s layout, some aircraft may be available for visitors to walk around or view up close, allowing for a deeper appreciation of the design and structure of these planes.
5. Location and Accessibility
- CANOPEE is typically located in an area where aviation history is particularly relevant. Some museums of this type are situated near former military bases, airfields, or aerospace centers.
- The museum is an excellent place for both aviation enthusiasts and history buffs, and it’s often located within easy reach of major cities or historical sites related to aviation.
In Summary:
CANOPEE – Conservatoire d’Aéronefs non Opérationnels Préservés et Exposés offers a fascinating look into the history of aviation through its collection of preserved aircraft. It’s a great destination for anyone interested in aviation history, technological evolution, and the preservation of aircraft that are no longer in operation but hold significant historical value.
Photos Johnny Comstedt.