The museum is housed in the former RAE Balloon School, originally built to train troops in the use of reconnaissance balloons.
The Farnborough site was the location of the first powered flight in the UK, piloted by Samuel Cody in 1908.
The collection features the actual cockpit of a Canberra PR9, used for high-altitude reconnaissance.
The site hosts a rare example of a supersonic wind tunnel model used in the development of the Concorde.
The grounds feature an outdoor 'Gate Guardian' display including historical helicopters and jet fighters.
It maintains a comprehensive archive of the RAE, covering aeronautical developments from 1905 to the modern era.
The museum displays components from the development of the 'Black Arrow' satellite launch vehicle.
Visitors can see early examples of experimental flight simulators developed on-site during the Cold War.
The site includes a preserved Grade II listed historic wind tunnel building nearby.
Some exhibits were used in the development and testing of British ejector seats, a critical safety innovation.
The Farnborough Air Sciences Trust (FAST) Museum preserves the pioneering legacy of the Royal Aircraft Establishment (RAE), located on the site of Britain's first powered flight. It houses a diverse collection of vintage aircraft, engines, and aerospace artifacts related to the site's history in aerodynamics research. The museum is situated within the original Balloon School, which dates back to the early 20th century. Exhibits include early wind tunnel models, ejection seat test rigs, and iconic aircraft like the Hawker Hunter and the Gloster Meteor. It functions as an archive for the RAE’s century-long contribution to global aviation, including stealth technology and supersonic flight testing. The site remains a vital record of Farnborough's role as the birthplace of British military aviation.
The outdoor aircraft park offers the best lighting and perspective for capturing the collection against the backdrop of the historic site.
Check the official website for special guided tour days, as these often include access to areas not usually open to the public.
Wear comfortable shoes, as some of the aircraft displays and historic buildings require walking on uneven outdoor surfaces.
Allow extra time to browse the on-site archive and reference library if you have a deep interest in aviation history.
Do not mistake the museum for the separate Farnborough International Airshow site, as they are managed independently and have different access rules.
Typically open to the public on weekends and bank holidays; closed during the week except for pre-booked group tours.
Maintain a respectful distance from aircraft exhibits; climbing on artifacts is strictly prohibited.
