The Cavan and Leitrim Railway Museum in Dromod, Ireland, is best known for its heritage railway collection, but it also features a fascinating assortment of vintage aircraft and aviation memorabilia. These exhibits add a unique dimension to the museum, appealing to aviation enthusiasts alongside railway fans.
Cavan and Leitrim Railway
Station Road
www.cavanandleitrimrailway.com
+353 71 963 8599
Opening times see website
Aircraft collection
| VP-BDF
173 192 G-AOIE BGA1410 184 XE789 EI-100 | Boeing 707-321 (cockpit)
de Havilland Chipmunk T.20 de Havilland Vampire T.55 Douglas DC-7C (fuselage) Grunau Baby Glider Percival Provost T.53 Slingsby T.31B Tadem Tutor Glider S.Z.D.-12a Muncha 100 glider |
Cavan and Leitrim Railway Museum Aircraft Collection Highlights
The aircraft at the museum reflect a mix of historical and military aviation, showcasing the versatility and ingenuity of past aviation designs.
- De Havilland Vampire Jet:
- One of the most notable exhibits is the De Havilland Vampire, a classic post-World War II British jet fighter. This aircraft was one of the first jet-powered planes introduced into military service, marking a significant evolution in aviation technology.
- Percival Provost Trainer:
- The Cavan and Leitrim Railway Museum features a Percival Provost, a British-made trainer aircraft used primarily in the 1950s. It was instrumental in training pilots during the transition from piston-engine to jet-powered aircraft.
- Vintage Helicopters:
- The Cavan and Leitrim Railway Museum collection includes early model helicopters that were pivotal in search-and-rescue operations and military logistics.
- Additional Artifacts:
- The aviation exhibits are complemented by various aviation artifacts, including control panels, flight instruments, uniforms, and maintenance tools. These items provide insight into the operations and life around aircraft in their active service years.
Why Are Aircraft at a Railway Museum?
The eclectic nature of the Cavan and Leitrim Railway Museum reflects its founder’s passion for preserving all aspects of transport and engineering history. The inclusion of aircraft broadens the museum’s appeal and helps connect the evolution of transportation across land, air, and even sea.