My husband and I love to travel, and commercial aviation is one of his interests hence, it is fitting that we visit the place where Australia’s biggest aviation brand all started.
Nestled in the heart of Longreach, Queensland, the QANTAS Founders Museum is a testament to Australian aviation’s pioneering spirit. This museum is not just a collection of artifacts; it is a living, breathing chronicle of the history and evolution of QANTAS, one of the world’s most iconic airlines. This museum offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of aviation history and understand the profound impact QANTAS has had on the travel industry.
The QANTAS Founders Museum is located in Longreach, a town that holds a special place in the annals of aviation history. It was here, in 1920, that Queensland and Northern Territory Aerial Services Ltd (QANTAS) was founded by two former World War I pilots, Paul McGinness and Hudson Fysh, along with local grazier Fergus McMaster. Their vision was to connect the remote outback communities of Australia with the rest of the world, and thus, QANTAS was born.
Qantas held its first Board Meeting in Winton in 1921 and the base was then shifted to Longreach. The National Heritage Listed Qantas Hangar was completed in August 1922, just in time for the first scheduled passenger flight in November 1922.
As you step into the museum, you are greeted by a stunning array of exhibits that chronicle the journey of QANTAS from its humble beginnings to its current status as a global aviation giant. The museum’s collection includes meticulously restored aircraft, historical photographs, and interactive displays that bring the past to life.
One of the highlights of the museum is the original QANTAS hangar, which has been preserved and restored to its former glory. This hangar, built in 1922, is where the first QANTAS aircraft were assembled and maintained. Walking through this historic building, you can almost hear the echoes of the past and feel the excitement of those early days of aviation.
The QANTAS Founders Museum boasts an impressive collection of aircraft that have played a significant role in the airline’s history. Among the most notable is the Boeing 747-200, affectionately known as the “City of Bunbury.” This aircraft, which was retired from service in 2008, is open for guided tours, allowing visitors to explore its cockpit, passenger cabins, and even the cargo hold.
Another star attraction is the Lockheed Super Constellation, a beautifully restored aircraft that symbolizes the golden age of air travel. This aircraft, with its distinctive triple-tail design, was instrumental in establishing QANTAS as a major player in international aviation during the 1950s.
In 1988, this aircraft was impounded in Manila Philippines, and abandoned by its owners. With the help of many volunteers from the Qantas Founders Museum, and QANTAS Foundation Memorial, in 2015 they began the process of acquiring and recovering the aircraft in the Philippines, restored for the next two years.
Qantas Founders Museum is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to telling the story of Qantas, from its early days in Outback Queensland to the present day.
Dominating over these aircraft is the new Airpark Rook enclosure, protecting the Museum’s aircraft and visitors from the Longreach sun while at night visit Luminescent Longreach, it changes the airplane enclosure to an arena for the spectacular sound and light night show, telling the story of Qantas through incredible projections on the fuselages of the aircraft.
The museum also pays tribute to the spirit of innovation that has been a hallmark of QANTAS throughout its history. From the introduction of the world’s first business-class service in 1979 to the development of cutting-edge safety and maintenance practices, QANTAS has always been at the forefront of aviation technology.
Interactive exhibits allow visitors to engage with the science and engineering behind modern aviation. You can try your hand at flying a virtual aircraft, learn about the principles of aerodynamics, and even experience the thrill of a simulated emergency landing. These hands-on activities provide a deeper appreciation of the complexities and challenges of aviation.
Tours of the Qantas aircraft including the Boeing 747 and 707 are scheduled daily and provide an inside glimpse of the many secrets and stories of these great aircraft. Specific tours will also offer you the chance to sit in the cockpit and if you are up for a bit of excitement, strap on a harness and walk out on the wing of the Boeing 747 Jumbo jet. These tours are often in demand so be sure to book ahead.
In the main museum and galleries, follow the history of Qantas through modern interactive displays, aircraft exhibits, and documentary films. The 1922 National Heritage Listed Qantas Hangar allows you to step back in time to the early days of Qantas where the airline had to overcome many trials and the tyranny of distance. You can learn about the history and significance of the Qantas Hangar through the Museum’s daily guided tours.
The Museum’s aviation-themed McGuinnes’ Restaurant is open daily and offers a wide selection of delicious meals, drinks, and coffee during your visit. Before leaving make sure you visit the Founders Store with a great choice of distinctive souvenirs, clothing, jewellery, books, and Qantas memorabilia.
The QANTAS Founders Museum extends beyond its role as a repository of aviation history. It serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact that air travel has had on the world. By connecting people and places, QANTAS has played a pivotal role in shaping the modern travel industry.
The museum also highlights the importance of preserving and celebrating our aviation heritage. Through its educational programs and outreach initiatives, the museum inspires future generations to pursue careers in aviation and aerospace. It fosters a sense of pride and appreciation for the achievements of those who came before us and encourages us to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
The QANTAS Founders Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone with an interest in aviation and travel. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of QANTAS and gain a deeper understanding of the airline’s enduring legacy. Whether you are an aviation enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for an unforgettable experience, the QANTAS Founders Museum has something to offer.
First Class – $169.00
Embark on a 1.5hr guided tour exploring iconic aircraft including the Douglas DC-3, Catalina flying boat, Lockheed Super Constellation, Boeing 707, and Boeing 747 followed by a 60-minute small group tour of the Boeing 747 including sitting in the flight deck and harnessing up for a walk on its wing. Afterwards, explore the museum’s main exhibition hall and National Heritage Listed Hangar on a self-guided museum tour, all included in this ticket.
Business Class – $99.00
Join us for our 25-minute night-time light and sound spectacular; 100 years of Qantas history projected on the side of our iconic aircraft. The following morning, embark on a 90-minute guided tour exploring iconic aircraft in the airpark with one of our experienced tour guides. Afterwards, explore the museum’s main exhibition hall and National Heritage Listed Hangar on a self-guided museum tour, all included in this ticket.
Summer Premium Economy – $85.00
Museum & guided 1.5hr Tour of the aircraft in the Airpark. Please arrive 15 minutes before the tour time. Available from 6 Oct 2024 to 2 March 2025.
747 Wing Walk Tour – $89.00
The Wing Walk Tour is a 1-hour exclusive tour including access to parts of the aircraft not included in the Airpark Tour. The Wing Walk Tour is only available for guests 12 years or older (anyone under 18 years must be accompanied by a paying adult). This includes visitors exploring the 747 flight deck, where you to sit in the pilot’s seat and learn about the many switches and buttons. You will then walk out on the wing of the 747!
Museum only – $39.00
Explore the evolution of Qantas from its start in Queensland’s Outback to a global airline through a self-guided tour with engaging displays, artifacts, and multimedia exhibits.
Light & Sound Show Luminescent Longreach – $30.00
After the Outback sun sets, join us for our 25-minute light and sound spectacular; 100 years of Qantas history projected onto the side of our iconic aircraft. This experience weaves an unforgettable narrative through time, a story of the daring spirit of early aviation, iconic aircraft, wars, distant places, and outback innovation.
Book your experiential tour at their official website https://www.qfom.com.au/
By preserving and celebrating the achievements of the past, the museum inspires us to look to the future with a sense of wonder and possibility. It reminds us that the sky is not the limit, but rather the beginning of an endless journey of discovery and innovation. So, the next time you find yourself in Longreach, make sure to visit the QANTAS Founders Museum and take a journey through the fascinating world of aviation history.
PS: QANTAS Founders Museum is not owned by the current QANTAS airline company although they are one of the biggest donors. It is owned by the Qantas Foundation Memorial, a not-for-profit community group and registered charity based in Longreach, Queensland.
Watch our YouTube video during our tour:
