The aeronautical collection dates back to 1909 when the Royal Scottish Museum acquired a model of the Wright Brothers' Model A biplane. A collection of engines, models and parts was built up in the following years. When a complete Supermarine Spitfire was acquired in 1971, the collection was moved from Edinburgh to be displayed at East Fortune airfield in East Lothian.
The National Museum of Flight Scotland opened to the public in 1975. The site occupies part of a former RAF airfield, now an historic monument. In 1919 the airship R34 left from East Fortune to make the first east to west crossing of the Atlantic by air. The collection includes a number of R34 relics. The aviation collections include aircraft, engines, rockets, photographs, a reference library, archives, models, flying clothing, instruments and propellers.
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How to find National Museum of Flight
The National Museum of Flight Scotland is situated 20 miles east of Edinburgh.
By car
From Edinburgh: follow the A1 south exit at Abbotsview Junction. Take second exit from roundabout onto A199 for East Linton. After approximately one mile, turn left onto B1347 and follow the signs for the National Museum of Flight.
From the south: follow the A1 north to Thistlycross Roundabout. Take second exit to East Linton. At Beltonford Roundabout take second exit onto A199 for East Linton. After approximately 6 miles, turn right onto B1347 and follow the signs for the National Museum of Flight.
By bus
The Museum is serviced by bus service no. 121 (First Bus Edinburgh), running between Haddington and North Berwick. Regular bus services run from Edinburgh to North Berwick, and an express bus service from Edinburgh to Haddington. Call Traveline 0870 608 2 608 for timetable details.
By train
Scotrail run regular services from Edinburgh to North Berwick. Call National Rail Enquiries on 08457 484950 for timetable details.
Access Information:
There is ample car parking at no charge, with three spaces for visitors with a disability next to the main hangar.
There is a level entrance and wheelchair for loan at no charge.
Display areas are all at ground level apart from a small viewing gallery, which is accessible by stair only.
Adapted toilets with baby-changing are available.
Guide dogs, hearing dogs and other recognised assistance dogs are admitted.