Celebrating RAF100

The Royal Air Force, the world's first independent air force, came into being on 1st April 1918.

Aerospace Bristol is proud to be part of RAF100 and join the RAF in commemorating, celebrating and inspiring future generations.

1st April 2018 marks the centenary of the formation of the RAF. It was on this date in 1918 that the Royal Flying Corps and the Royal Naval Air Service merged to form the RAF; the world’s first independent air force.

The RAF has a very strong association with Filton dating back to the First World War. The airfield was used by The Royal Flying Corps from 1915 and an Aircraft Acceptance Park was built in 1917. 

Although the Acceptance Park closed in late 1919, Aerospace Bristol continues to commemorate the legacy between Filton and the RAF: one of the original 1917 'Belfast' hangars is now home to the museum.

Today, Aerospace Bristol's main exhibition galleries are located inside the grade-II listed hangar and feature many exhibits related to the RAF, including a replica Bristol Fighter, a replica Bristol Scout, the forward section of a Bristol Beaufighter, and several examples of Bristol engines.

You can explore Filton's history with the RAF throughout 2018 as we regularly share exclusive archive footage and updates during this special centenary year.

Visit Aerospace Bristol and join us in commemorating and celebrating RAF100.

1 April 1918: The Royal Air Force was formed by merging the Royal Flying Corps and Royal Naval Air Service.  The first aircraft airborne on the day was a Bristol F2B Fighter..  Credit: BAE Systems

Bristol Type 23 Badger, 1919, outside Building 16S, on Aerodrome in 1919.  Credit: BAE Systems