The museum holds the largest aviation-themed collection in Finland, focused on Finnish aviation and aircraft designed or used by Finns. It is the national responsible museum for aviation and part of the Trafiikki network of transport and communication museums. The Ilmailumuseoyhdistys association founded it in 1969, and the first permanent exhibition opened in 1972 at Helsinki-Vantaa airport. A foundation established in 1996 runs it.
Hall 1 covers military aviation, the middle hall hosts rotating exhibitions and Hall 2 covers civil aviation. There are flight simulators and hot air balloon flights, and the premises host private events. Halls 1 and 2 are unheated, so dress warmly in cool seasons. Some areas, including the galleries and the Convair Metropolitan aircraft, are reached by stairs; wheelchairs can be borrowed. There is a cafe, lockers and an accessible toilet, and assistance dogs are welcome.
Visited the museum? Share your experience on Suomi Guide for other visitors.