Press & Media

Founded in 1968, the Ulster Aviation Society is a volunteer-run charitable association dedicated to preserving, restoring and presenting Northern Ireland’s aviation heritage. It is based at Maze Long Kesh, Lisburn, where its collection occupies two authentic Second World War aircraft hangars.

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The Society cares for more than 55 aircraft and vehicles, ranging from Second World War types and historic helicopters to Cold War fast jets, locally built aircraft and rare experimental designs. The collection is complemented by themed display rooms, an aviation library, restoration projects, seven flight simulators and six virtual-reality headsets.

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Nearly 900 members support the Society, with more than 70 regular volunteers contributing expertise across aircraft and vehicle restoration, tour guiding, admin, visitor support, education and public events. Their work brings to life the people, engineering, industry and wider history behind the exhibits. The hangars and aircraft have also served as locations and props for movies, television, and documentaries

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In 2018, the Society received The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest UK award for a voluntary group. Public visits are normally available by prior arrangement from March to October. The Society is registered with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland under charity number NIC100128.