Malta Aviation Museum is an aircraft museum situated on the site of the former Royal Air Force airfield in the village of Ta’Qali, on the island of Malta. The museum, based in three hangars, covers the history of aviation on the island with exhibits, particularly from the Second World War and post-war periods. The museum is involved in the preservation and restoration of aircraft, some of which are in airworthy condition.

Malta Aviation Museum

Ta’ Qali, ATD 4000, M

Malta

www.maltaviationmuseum.com

info@maltaviationmuseum.com

+356 21416095

Daily 09:00 – 17:00

Closed Good Friday, Easter Sunday,15 August, Xmas Day & New Year’s Day

Admission fee

Gift shop

Malta Aviation Museum is located on the ex RAF Ta’ Qali Airfield. Exhibits are housed in two, 200Ft long Romney Huts and a larger hangar dedicated to the Air Battle of Malta.

Malta Aviation Museum can be reached from:

Arriva bus nos. 106 & 107. Museum is also on the Malta Sightseeing Northern route, what are known as Hop On – Hop Off (or open-top buses) which call at the museum every 30 minutes – this is presently the best way to reach us – or by hired car.

Aircraft collection

AS7201 MM80303/1-03 MM81145 5N-BBP N495F 66-0749 JC-XXX 9H-ACB C-FITH F-GILV XG691 G-ANFW WZ550/599 XN769 MM6377/2-11 HS491 Z3055/HA-E WF714 WL360 WS774/D WV826/O-161 – MM53679/SL-36 9H-CUB/44-79587/BD 9H-ADX AS0021 EN199/R-B

Agusta Bell AB47G-2 Agusta Bell AB204B Agusta Bell AB212AM BAC 111-518FG (nose only) Beech 18S Bell UH-1H Iroquois Callus Centaur 2000 Cessna L-19E Bird Dog Douglas C-47A Dakota Douglas C-47A Dakota de Havilland Sea Venom FAW22 de Havilland D.H.82A Tiger Moth de Havilland Vampire T.11 English Electric Lightning F.2 Fiat G91R/1B Fairey Swordfish IV (wreck) Hawker Hurricane Mk.IIA Gloster Meteor F.8 Gloster Meteor T.7 Gloster Meteor NF.14T Hawker Sea Hawk FGA.6 Le Pou du Ciel H.M.14 North American T-6G Harvard Piper L-4H Cub RP-Kestrel Scottish Aviation Bulldog T.1 Supermarine Spitfire Mk.IX

Photos Mel Murray

Photos Malta Aviation Museum, Ta’ Qali, Malta | Mel Murray

Key Features of the Malta Aviation Museum:

1. Aircraft Collection:
   • The Malta Aviation Museum houses a wide variety of aircraft, both military and civilian, that represent key periods of aviation history. The museum is home to planes from different eras, ranging from the early days of flight to World War II and beyond.
   • The collection includes propeller-driven planes, jet aircraft, and helicopters. Many of these aircraft were used by the British Royal Air Force (RAF) during World War II, when Malta played a strategic role in the Mediterranean theater of the war.
   • Some notable aircraft on display include:
     • Hawker Hurricane and Supermarine Spitfire fighters from WWII.
     • Gloster Gladiator, a biplane used in the Siege of Malta.
     • Douglas DC-3, a transport aircraft.
     • Vickers Valiant and other military jets.
     • Various helicopters and small aircraft used for both civilian and military purposes.
2. The Role of Malta in WWII:
   • The museum highlights Malta’s pivotal role in World War II, particularly its strategic position in the Mediterranean. Malta was a key base for the Allied forces, and the museum showcases the aircraft that were stationed on the island and used during the war.
   • Exhibits cover the Siege of Malta, the defense of the island, and the involvement of various air forces in combat operations. There are displays detailing the defensive battles fought by the Royal Air Force (RAF), including the Malta Convoys and the air defense of Malta against Axis forces.
3. Aviation Memorabilia:
   • In addition to the aircraft collection, the museum features a range of aviation memorabilia that helps tell the story of aviation history on Malta. This includes uniforms, flight instruments, pilot equipment, and photographs documenting the island’s aviation history.
   • There are also displays dedicated to the military aviation units that operated from Malta, as well as the history of aviation in the Maltese islands.
4. Restoration and Preservation:
   • The Malta Aviation Museum is involved in the restoration and preservation of historical aircraft. Some of the museum’s aircraft are in the process of being restored to their original condition, and visitors may have the opportunity to see these planes being worked on.
   • The museum’s commitment to preserving Malta’s aviation heritage includes the ongoing restoration of aircraft, engines, and other aviation equipment.
5. Educational Programs and Tours:
   • The Malta Aviation Museum offers guided tours that provide in-depth explanations about the aircraft, their history, and Malta’s role in aviation. These tours are led by knowledgeable staff and are an excellent way for visitors to learn more about the exhibits.
   • Educational programs for students and aviation enthusiasts are also available, with a focus on the history of aviation, military aviation, and the role of Malta in global aviation developments.
6. Historical Exhibits and Interactive Displays:
   • The museum has several interactive exhibits designed to engage visitors in aviation history. These displays allow visitors to explore aspects of aviation technology, military aviation tactics, and the strategic importance of Malta as an airbase during the war.
   • The museum also includes historical narratives about aviation milestones in Malta, showcasing the island’s contributions to the development of aviation over the years.
7. Airfield and Aircraft Viewing:
   • The Malta Aviation Museum is situated near Ta’ Qali National Park, which was once the site of a Royal Air Force base during WWII. The museum grounds are a former airfield, and visitors can get up close to the aircraft and explore the history of the airbase.
   • The museum’s outdoor area provides an opportunity for visitors to see the aircraft in their entirety and appreciate the scale and design of these historical planes.
8. Events and Airshows:
   • The Malta Aviation Museum hosts special events, such as airshows, vintage aircraft fly-ins, and aviation festivals, which allow visitors to see historic planes in action. These events often feature aircraft displays, flying demonstrations, and opportunities to meet with aviation professionals and enthusiasts.
   • The museum is also involved in commemorative events celebrating important anniversaries in Malta’s aviation history, particularly related to World War II and the island’s role in the war effort.

Why Visit the Malta Aviation Museum?

The Malta Aviation Museum offers a fascinating look at the island’s aviation history, with a strong focus on World War II and its significance as a key military base in the Mediterranean. The museum provides an opportunity to explore historic aircraft, learn about the technological advancements in aviation, and discover the crucial role Malta played in military aviation history.

The museum’s extensive collection, educational programs, and commitment to the restoration of aircraft make it an ideal destination for aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone interested in learning more about aviation technology and military history.

For those visiting Malta, the Malta Aviation Museum offers a unique opportunity to connect with the aviation heritage of the island and appreciate the important role it played in global aviation history, particularly during the Second World War. Whether you’re exploring the aircraft exhibits, learning about the island’s military history, or attending an aviation event, the Malta Aviation Museum provides an immersive and informative experience.