Ulster Aviation Society

The Ulster Aviation Society (UAS) is a volunteer-run aviation museum and registered charity dedicated to preserving and exhibiting Northern Ireland's aviation heritage. Unique array of 54+ aircraft & vehicles within its Heritage collection, and housed within two, authentic, Second World War hangars at Maze Long Kesh, just 5 mins outside Lisburn.

Attractions include: military fast jets - both modern and Cold War eras, vintage aircraft, Second World War fighters, Shorts-designed & built aircraft, civilian aircraft, plus military helicopters (RAF & Irish Air Corps), Flight Simulators & VR Suites, aircraft engines, artefacts and rare aviation reference materials & library, all with strong links to aviation within the island of Ireland. 2018 winners of the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service (QAVS).

History and Mission
Founded in 1968, the UAS is entirely operated by passionate volunteers who restore and maintain the collection, many of whom have decades of experience. The Society's mission is to educate the public about Northern Ireland's rich aviation legacy, including its key role in aircraft production and innovation during the 20th century.

What You'll See and Do
Get up close to rare military and civilian aircraft, including the Tornado GR4, Phantom FG1, Jaguar GR3A, and Grumman Wildcat (Martlet).
Explore helicopters such as the Lynx, Gazelle, Puma, Wessex, Scout and Alouette.
Experience interactive exhibits, state-of-the-art flight simulators and VR suites.
Enjoy free guided tours led by knowledgeable volunteers, with opportunities to sit in cockpits and learn about restoration projects.
Browse their aviation library with rare aviation books and manuals.

​​Location & Accessibility
The museum is located at Maze Long Kesh, approximately 2 miles west of Lisburn city centre. Extensive free parking is available and the site is wheelchair accessible, though some surfaces in the hangars may be uneven.

Opening Hours
Open Season: 1 March – 31 October (closed November–February)
Tour Times: Daily at 10:30am and 5:30pm
Saturday: Additional tour slots may be available
Guided Tour Duration: Approx. 2-3 hours
Please note: The hangars are unheated, so dress warmly during cooler months.

How to Book a Tour
All visits must be pre-booked. Walk-ins are not permitted.
Email bookvisit@ulsteraviationsociety.org with:
The number of visitors in your group (max 10 for family or msall groups)
Your mobile number for confirmation
A Tour Co-ordinator will confirm your booking, or suggest alternative times or dates.
Admission: Family and small group tours (up to 10 people) are free, but donations are encouraged to support the Society's charitable work. Larger groups (11-50 people) and schools are welcome for a small fee per person.

Visitor Tips
Children under 8 must be closely supervised at all times.
Photography is welcome. Cockpit access is subject to volunteer availability.
Contactless Card donations are accepted (Credit & Debit Cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal).