The Farnborough Air Sciences Trust (FAST) museum is a fascinating destination for those interested in aviation history, science, and innovation. Located in Farnborough, Hampshire, the museum is dedicated to preserving the heritage of the area, which is known as the birthplace of British aviation and aerospace research.
Farnborough Air Sciences Trust (FAST)
+44 1252 375050
Saturdays, Sundays & Bank Holiday Mondays 10:00 – 16:00
Weekdays and school parties by arrangement
Admission free
Gift shop
Aircraft collection
| XW934/Y ZA195 XV165 –WT309 XS420/420 XS932 XP516/16 WV383 XL563 G-AWZI XW566 XW863 ZD280 XZ166 XW241 XP848 XT633 XV631 – | BAe Harrier T.4 BAe Sea Harrier FRS.1/FA.2 Blackburn Buccaneer S.2B (cockpit) British Army Aeroplane No 1English Electric Canberra B.6 (mod) (cockpit) English Electric Lightning T.5 English Electric Lightning T.6 (cockpit) Folland Gnat T.1 Hawker Hunter T.7 Hawker Hunter T.7 Hawker Siddeley Trident 3B (cockpit) Sepecat Jaguar T.2 Westland Gazelle HT.2 Westland Lynx AH.7 Westland Lynx HAS.2 Westland SA330E Puma Westland Scout AH.1 Westland Scout AH.1 Westland Wasp HAS.1 Jindivik Target Drone |
- Aircraft chosen by the FAST Trustees for their RAE Farnborough connections
- Nose sections and cockpits.
- Jet engines and helicopter rotors.
- Fully working demonstration wind tunnel.
- Research models of Concorde
Key Features of the Farnborough Air Sciences Trust (FAST)
1. Rich Aviation History:
- Farnborough has been at the heart of aviation innovation since the early 20th century. The FAST museum showcases the town’s pivotal role in British and global aviation, from early experiments in flight to cutting-edge aerospace research.
2. Diverse Collection of Exhibits:
- Historic Aircraft:
- The museum features several aircraft, including a replica of Samuel Cody’s British Army Aeroplane No. 1, the first powered flight in Britain (1908).
- Sections of more modern aircraft like jets and reconnaissance planes.
- Wind Tunnels and Testing Equipment:
- Displays highlight the town’s pioneering role in aerodynamics, including artifacts from Farnborough’s iconic wind tunnels.
- Flight Simulators and Avionics:
- Hands-on exhibits include flight simulators, avionics systems, and interactive displays for visitors of all ages.
- Black Box Recorder:
- Farnborough was instrumental in the development of the black box flight recorder, a critical innovation in aviation safety. Visitors can learn about its creation and significance.
3. Research and Innovations:
- The Farnborough Air Sciences Trust (FAST) delves into the scientific breakthroughs achieved at Farnborough, such as advancements in:
- Supersonic flight (contributing to Concorde’s development).
- Early space research programs.
- Military and civilian aviation technologies.
4. Historic Site:
- The Farnborough Air Sciences Trust (FAST) is housed in a Grade I listed building, the original Balloon School of the Royal Engineers, which later became part of the Royal Aircraft Establishment (RAE).
- Visitors can also explore the nearby RAE wind tunnels on special open days.