UK’s RAF Museum Teams Up with Virgin Atlantic
The Royal Air Force Museum (RAF Museum) in London, England, has announced a new commercial partnership with Virgin Atlantic, naming the airline as its official airline partner. This collaboration will facilitate the transportation of RAF Museum representatives between the UK and the US, allowing them to attend events hosted by the RAF Museum’s American Foundation, which supports fundraising initiatives in North America.
The RAF Museum stated, “The collaboration between the RAF Museum and Virgin Atlantic highlights a shared dedication to inspiring everyone with the RAF story while preserving and celebrating aviation history and strengthening transatlantic connections.”
Edward Sharman, Head of Development at the RAF Museum, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership: “We are thrilled to welcome Virgin Atlantic as our first Official Airline Partner. The airline joins us in our mission to inspire everyone with the RAF story, the people who shape it, and its significance in our lives.”
He further noted that Virgin Atlantic’s strong connections between the UK and the US would significantly enhance the museum’s engagement with supporters across the Atlantic. “As a registered charity, this additional support will help ensure the continued care of our exhibitions and collections. With a shared passion for aviation, I am excited about the benefits this partnership will bring as we honor the legacy of the RAF,” Sharman added.
The partnership was finalized during a recent visit by Virgin Atlantic staff to the RAF Museum’s London location. The airline’s corporate team received an extensive tour from the museum’s volunteers and utilized the museum’s meeting facilities. As part of this new collaboration, Virgin Atlantic employees will enjoy exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences, public event access, venue hire discounts, and corporate volunteering opportunities at both the Hendon site in North London and the Cosford site in the Midlands.
Thomas Maynard, Director of Global Corporate Sales at Virgin Atlantic, stated, “The US is Virgin Atlantic’s heartland, so we’re delighted to support the RAF Museum as its Official Airline Partner, flying guests across the Atlantic in style.” He emphasized the importance of the partnership in inspiring guests to learn about the RAF’s remarkable history and its role in the aviation world.
The RAF Museum in London boasts six hangars filled with aircraft, historical objects, and immersive experiences that showcase over 100 years of Royal Air Force operations both in the UK and worldwide. Visitors can engage with flight simulators and hear stories from those who served in the RAF, as well as those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
In addition to its extensive exhibits, the RAF Museum offers aviation artwork and special activities tailored for children and families. It also hosts a variety of events and exhibitions, all commemorating the rich history of the RAF through the decades.
With this partnership, the RAF Museum and Virgin Atlantic are poised to strengthen their shared mission of celebrating aviation history and fostering connections across the Atlantic.