Second World War hangars to reopen following £3.6 million restoration

National Museums Scotland has announced the reopening date for two of the National Museum of Flight’s aircraft hangars following their £3.6 million restoration and redevelopment.

The nationally significant Second World War hangars at the East Lothian attraction will re-open on 25 March, 2016. Built in 1940-41, they are part of the East Fortune Airfield Scheduled Monument and are imposing features at the former wartime airfield. On completion of their restoration, the hangars will house an array of world-class military and commercial aircraft presented through interactives and film programmes. The stories of those who piloted or flew in the aircraft will also be told through  displays featuring uniforms, documents and photographs.
Funding for the redevelopment includes a £1.3 million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund and £1.8 million from the Scottish Government.Steve McLean, General Manager, National Museum of Flight said: 'The National Museum of Flight is already one of Europe’s major aviation museums. The transformation of these two Second World War hangars has enabled us to create modern displays and imaginative interactives to create a hugely engaging experience for our visitors and to tell the personal stories that lie behind the objects and aircraft in our care. We’re greatly looking forward to unveiling them next Easter.'

National Museum of Flight, East Fortune Airfield, East Lothian EH39 5LF; tel: 0300 123 6789; website.



(Images courtesy of Paul Dodds)