Aviation captivates and inspires so many people because it merges cutting-edge technology, physics, and human ingenuity. The ability to conquer the skies, once a distant dream, now connects the world. From the intricacies of flight mechanics to the sheer thrill of travel and exploration, aviation represents progress, freedom and boundless possibility. It can also bring out a powerful sense of nostalgia in people, and here are five reasons why it resonates so much right here in the south-east of England.
- A fascinating look back in time
We all enjoy discovering more about how things once were, and in the field of aviation this entails looking back at what many consider to be a more stylish age. There was a wonderful air of glamour about this activity at one time, long before the advent of cheap flights that pack the passengers in like sardines in a can. Spend a day at the fabulous Tangmere Military Aviation Museum, for example, and you can find out for yourself.
- Experience the thrill of flying in a golden era
If you’d like to really understand what it was like for pilots from a bygone era, you might want to pay a visit to Surrey’s impressive Redhill Aerodrome. Here in the heart of the county’s rural countryside, you can book up a flying experience in a historic biplane. Imagine the thrill of being transported into the skies in an open cockpit and enjoying views that are usually just reserved for the birds. If you have a head for heights, this is something of a must-have.
- Keeping memories alive in style
Perhaps the most important of all the aviation landmarks in the region is the wonderful Brighton City Airport Museum. Located in Shoreham and opened in 1911, it’s actually one of the oldest airports in the entire world. It remains a busy facility offering pilot training, charter flights, scheduled flights and pleasure trips. The museum is also home to a superb selection of displays and exhibits that give the visitor a flavour of the very early days of flying.
- Nothing beats getting up close and personal
Millions of people every year travel through our major airports, but do you think it ever feels like an edifying experience? At Gatwick, Heathrow and elsewhere, you tend to be shunted from A to B well away from the action itself. Terminal buildings are often a long way from where the planes are, and at times it can feel like we’re treated as little more than cattle. At Redhill, Shoreham, Tangmere and many other small facilities, you get to see planes at close hand, just like it always used to be.
- Educating the future generations
Many of our smaller airports offer a chance to teach younger people about the way we used to fly. Museums often attract school groups, eager to find out more about an activity that was once considered exotic and glamorous. It’s reassuring to know that aviation doesn’t have to be always seen as little more than an expensive chore.
If you’d like to find out more, take a look at GoLark’s listings today. There are some fabulous days out in Surrey and Sussex just waiting to be enjoyed.
