Archives at The Museum of Flight

Archival Collections at The Museum of Flight

The Museum of Flight Archives contains over 5,000 cubic feet of paper, photographic, and audiovisual materials that document the evolution of manned flight, from the Wright Brothers to modern jet travel to space exploration. We have millions of images including photographic prints, negatives, slides, and transparencies. Our paper-based materials include maps, charts, drawings, blueprints, log books, diaries, manuscripts, research and technical documentation, correspondence, philately, and ephemera such as airline tickets, and luggage tags. Audiovisual materials consist of oral history recordings, videos and films.

Searching for collections

This database provides access to finding aids for cataloged collections. Finding aids provide an overview of the collection, information about the creator(s), and an inventory. Not all of our archival collections currently have finding aids, but more are being cataloged and added to the database on a regular basis. Search by keyword or browse by title, subject, or name.

To search for books, manuals, and periodicals, use our Library Catalog

To see digitized items, search our Digital Collections

Accessing Materials

Archival collections are accessible by appointment in the Museum’s Dahlberg Research Center. The research center is open to the public. Our staff is ready and willing to assist aviation and aerospace researchers, including students from all levels, authors, teachers, historians, model-makers, genealogists, and more. To plan a visit or get in touch with staff, contact us.