New England Air Museum
Connecticut
The New England Air Museum (NEAM), located in Windsor Locks, Connecticut adjacent to Bradley International Airport, is a premier aerospace museum showcasing a vast collection of aircraft and aviation artifacts. The museum spans three display hangars along with additional restoration and storage facilities. Its extensive collection includes historic aircraft ranging from early flying machines like the Silas Brooks balloon basket—the oldest surviving American-built aircraft—to supersonic jets and rare examples such as the Sikorsky VS-44A flying boat and the Goodyear ZNP-K blimp control car. NEAM also features exhibits on notable aviation themes including the Tuskegee Airmen, Sikorsky Aircraft history, early French aviation, and New England women in aviation. Visitors can experience computer-based flight simulators and see the 58th Bombardment Wing Memorial centered around a restored B-29A Superfortress. The museum’s library holds an impressive archive of aviation books, periodicals, technical manuals, photographs, artwork, and engineering drawings. Recent expansions include mezzanines for aerial views of aircraft, modern climate control and lighting, and plans for a new hangar with a Challenger Learning Center and planetarium. NEAM’s mission is to present the story of aviation, celebrating human ingenuity and its profound impact on society.
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Consejo: For the best experience, visit during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy interactive exhibits. Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to secure entry and check for seasonal discounts or special event offers. The museum offers educational programs and flight simulators that are especially engaging for families and aviation enthusiasts. Plan your visit to coincide with special exhibitions or air shows for added excitement.
Datos interesantes
- •The Silas Brooks balloon basket at NEAM is the oldest surviving American-built aircraft.
- •The Sikorsky VS-44A on display is the only remaining American-built commercial trans-oceanic four-engine flying boat.
- •NEAM houses one of only two surviving Goodyear ZNP-K blimp control cars worldwide.
- •The museum's library contains approximately 6,000 aviation books and over 20,000 periodicals.
- •In 2017, NEAM added mezzanines in two hangars to provide aerial views of the aircraft collection.
Historia
The New England Air Museum originated from the Connecticut Aeronautical Historical Association, formed by Pratt & Whitney employees aiming to preserve a Louis Bancroft biplane.
After losing the original aircraft to fire, the group persisted, erecting an inflatable dome as the first display building in 1967.
A tornado destroyed the original outdoor Bradley Air Museum location in 1979, prompting construction of the current building in 1981.
Subsequent expansions added restoration hangars, military hangars, and storage facilities through the 1990s and 2000s.
Renovations in 2017 enhanced visitor experience with mezzanines and upgraded climate control.
Recent developments include new exhibits on the Tuskegee Airmen and Pratt & Whitney, and plans for a large new hangar with educational facilities.
Guía del lugar
Boeing B-29A Superfortress 'Jack’s Hack'1944
A fully restored B-29A Superfortress serving as the centerpiece of the 58th Bombardment Wing Memorial, representing the significant role of this bomber in World War II.
Silas Brooks Balloon Basket19th century
The oldest surviving American-built aircraft, an early flying machine representing the dawn of aviation in the United States.
Sikorsky VS-44A 'Excambian'1940s
The sole remaining American-built commercial trans-oceanic four-engine flying boat, showcasing advanced aeronautical engineering of its era.
Goodyear ZNP-K Blimp Control CarWorld War II era
One of only two surviving K-class blimp control cars worldwide, illustrating lighter-than-air aviation technology.
Tuskegee Airmen Exhibit2023
An exhibit dedicated to the pioneering African American pilots of World War II, highlighting their achievements and legacy in aviation history.
Contacto
Teléfono: (860) 623-3305
