Background

Central Australian Aviation Museum: A Flight Through History

Discover the pioneering spirit of aviation in Central Australia at the Aviation Museum, showcasing historical aircraft and untold stories.

4.3

The Central Australian Aviation Museum, located in the original Connellan Airways hangar, showcases the pioneering days of aviation in Central Australia. Visitors can explore historical aircraft, learn about the Royal Flying Doctor Service, and discover the stories of aviation heroes and even a villain.

A brief summary to Central Australian Aviation Museum

  • Wednesday 11 am-3 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-3 pm
  • Friday 11 am-3 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-3 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-3 pm

Local tips

  • Entry is by donation, so contribute what you can to support the museum's preservation efforts.
  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the exhibits and learn about the history of aviation in the region.
  • Check out the BBC documentary in the DC3 to get a great overview of the history of aviation in Central Australia.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The Central Australian Aviation Museum is located within the Araluen Cultural Precinct on Memorial Avenue. From the Araluen Arts Centre, it's a short walk north along the main road. The museum is easily accessible within the precinct.

  • Public Transport

    Alice Springs has a limited public transport system. Check local bus routes and schedules for service to the Araluen Cultural Precinct. From the bus stop, follow the signs to the Central Australian Aviation Museum within the precinct. A single bus fare is around $3.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in Alice Springs. Request a ride to the Araluen Cultural Precinct on Memorial Avenue. From the entrance, follow signs to the Central Australian Aviation Museum. A taxi or ride-share from the Alice Springs CBD will cost approximately $15-$25.

Unlock the Best of Central Australian Aviation Museum

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Central Australian Aviation Museum

Housed in the historic Connellan Airways hangar, the Central Australian Aviation Museum offers a captivating journey through the history of aviation in Central Australia. The museum stands on the site of Alice Springs' first aerodrome, established in 1939 by aviation pioneer E.J. Connellan. The hangar itself was brought to Alice Springs in 1939 from Sydney. The museum's collection features a variety of aircraft, including early Flying Doctor planes and a restored Douglas DC-3. Visitors can view the remains of the 'Kookaburra' and learn about the tragic story of its crew, who perished in the Tanami Desert while searching for Charles Kingsford Smith and Charles Ulm. Other exhibits include a de Havilland Australia Drover, a de Havilland Dove, a CAC Wackett, and a Westland Widgeon. The museum also highlights the role of Connellan Airways (later Connair) in connecting remote communities and providing essential services. The use of aircraft to deliver mail and supplies was a major factor in opening up the Territory. The museum opened in 1977, following a tragic suicide flight at the Alice Springs Airport. A group of locals formed the Central Australian Aviation Museum Inc. to recognize the sacrifices made by those who lost their lives. Visitors can also try their hand at flight simulators and learn about the technical aspects of aviation. The museum provides insights into the challenges and triumphs of early aviation in the Australian outback.

Popular Experiences near Central Australian Aviation Museum

Popular Hotels near Central Australian Aviation Museum

Select Currency