Celebrate the National Museum of Flight’s 50th birthday with us. 

On Monday 7 July 1975, the National Museum of Flight opened its doors to the public. On display were many of the aircraft that remain popular with visitors today, including the Supermarine Spitfire, Gloster Meteor and Hawker Sea Hawk. 

To celebrate the museum’s 50th birthday, we’re offering free entry for the whole weekend. Explore our incredible collections and learn about our historic airfield. Enjoy talks and tours with curators and museum staff. Go behind the scenes in our Conservation Hangar. See model aircraft and kite flying displays, and take part in craft and dress up activities for all ages. 

Explore the full programme

Expert talks  

Join our speakers to learn more about our museum collections and hear from experts in the aviation industry. 

Hear from curator Sarah Harper to learn about the role of East Fortune Airfield during the Cold War and meet the team from Flowcopter to hear about their new low cost, endurance cargo drone, the FC100.

Flight simulator

Have a go on our flight simulator immersive. 

Spaces will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. This activity is not suitable for children under 5. 

Conservation Hangar 

See behind the scenes in our Conservation Hangar to find out about objects not currently on display. 

Kite flying display   

Enjoy kite flying displays throughout the day by the Kite Club of Scotland. 

This activity is weather dependent. 

Model aircraft display

See model aircraft displays with the Scottish Aeromodellers Association and the East Fortune Aeromodellers. 

Aircraft spotlight talks

Learn more about some of the aircraft in the museum with our spotlight talks on the R34 Airship and Avro Vulcan. 

Photo opportunity and craft activities 

Try on a Second World War uniform and take a picture on your phone. Then make something to take away with you in our craft activities.

This activity is suitable for all ages. 

Outdoor walking tour 

Go on a walking tour of the museum site to learn more about the Second World War history of East Fortune Airfield with Owen, one of our longest serving volunteers. 

Accessibility and facilities

We want everyone who comes to our museums to enjoy their time with us and make the most of their visit.  

Visit our accessibility page for general access information for the National Museum of Flight.