Paris may typically be the embodiment of love and romance, but did you know that it’s also an iconic city in the aviation world? Not only is it home to the oldest and biggest air show around, the Paris Air Show, but there are also plenty of fascinating museums to explore and events to attend. Explore France’s fascinating aviation history and its breakthroughs in both inventions and successful trips. Marvel over both classic older models, witness thrilling innovations and even fulfil a flying fan’s dream of driving a Boeing 737 in a lifelike simulator.
France’s aviation history
France has long been dedicated to the development of aircrafts, making it the perfect destination for aviation lovers. The American Wright brothers, who are generally accredited with the invention and flying of the first successful airplane, came to France in the early 20th century soon after their invention. The interest they received in France was much higher than they had received back home, and the Wright brothers kicked off a series of exhibitions, schools and pilot training courses.
A few years later, French inventor Louis Blériot made the first successful international over-water flight to the UK. This groundbreaking event meant that demand shot up and France was soon thrown into mass aircraft production, becoming the main military supplier in World War 1, including the US army. While development stalled during World War 2, France eventually made its next big impact – the Concorde, which was built in 1969. You can explore this fascinating history and early models at some of France’s aviation museums and exhibitions.
Museum of Air and Space
For an aviation museum that’s truly out of this world, head to the Museum of Air and Space within the Paris-Le Bourget Airport. Otherwise known as ‘Musée de l’air et de l’espace’, the museum is packed with an incredible collection of more than 400 iconic aircrafts, and there are guided tours for those looking for further information on them. After perusing aircraft old and new, you can even climb on board four iconic planes: the Boeing 747, two Concordes and the iconic D-Day Dakota. If you have kids aged between 6 and 12 years of age, bring them along to learn all about iconic moments in aviation history as they explore the 40 interactive displays. And it doesn’t stop at our atmosphere – the planetarium shows beautifully immersive documentaries of our solar system and beyond.
Flight Experience Boeing 737
Have you ever wanted to take control of a classic Boeing 737? Then buckle up and live your dream at the centrally located Flight Experience Paris. This world leader in flight simulation entertainment allows you to climb inside a genuine enclosed cockpit for a truly authentic flying experience. The area is fully kitted out with functional controls and instruments and there will be a qualified instructor pilot on hand to show you the ropes. This officially licensed Boeing product is so convincing it is even used for professional pilot training – so you can be sure you’ll have an experience to remember.
Ready to begin your aviation adventure? Book your ferry from Dover to Calais now.
