Central Australian Aviation Museum: A Flight Through History

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.