Aviation Gallery

Heston Aerodrome c.1930s AFL03_aerofilms_c19981

Heston Aerodrome, Hounslow, Middlesex. The control tower (centre) may have been the first purpose-built example and became the model for this class of building. Between 1931 and 1937 Heston Airport was operated as a commercial airport by Airwork Ltd (whose logo appears on the the Customs House and aircraft), after which it was taken over by the Air Ministry. It was used as a fighter base during wartime, but Heathrow was preferred as the site for a commercial airport and the aerodrome was closed in 1947. Aerofilms Collection (see Links)

© Historic England

Artist Frank Wootton OBE (1911-1998) at his home studio

Artist Frank Wootton OBE (1911-1998), working in his studio at home in Alfriston, East Sussex, England. He was the official War Artist for the RAF and RCAF during World War Two. He was also a fine landscape and equestrian artist, and was commissioned to paint Arcle, the greatest steeplechaser of all time. Date: 1992

© Philip Dunn / Mary Evans Picture Library

Harry Hawker - Homecoming of the Australian Aircraft pioneer

Wild scenes greet the return, in 1914, of Harry Hawker (1889-1921) - Australian aviation pioneer - on his return to Australia (to demonstrate the advanced Sopwith Tabloid, which he had helped design). A wild crowd nearly wrecked the plane on one occasion, and he further damaged it during stunt flying. On his return to England he continued designing and testing aircraft with Sopwith throughout the First World War. Date: 1914