National Naval Aviation Museum

Pensacola Naval Air Station has trained scores of naval airmen, which explains why the National Museum of Naval Aviation is situated here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any sitting arrangements for the people who are there to see the Blue Angels Aerial Show?

Yes, there are sitting arrangements for about a 1000 people, one can avail the service by only paying a small fee of $3.

When are the Blue Angels available for ‘meet and greet’?

Blue Angles are mostly available during most Wednesdays and Tuesdays in the museum.

Are wheelchairs available for disabled people?

For people with disabilities, there are wheelchair facilities and that too without any extra charge. The museum is designed in a way so that handicapped people can move with more convenience.

Are guided tours available?

Yes, guided tours are available daily. And they are absolutely free of cost.

What are the parking facilities?

Parking is completely free of cost. The main parking lot is located on the west side of the museum.

Are there any restrictions that might prevent someone from entering the museum?

Yes. Backpacks and other articles of a similar kind are not allowed inside the museum. Visitors coming to the museum in motorbikes, helmet, gloves.

What is required to get access to the air station?

Visitors, in order to get into the air station, must present a valid identity card proving that their age is 16 or more.

What is the hour of operation of the museum?

The National Naval Aviation Museum is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm.

Is there any need to make preparations before attending the Blue Angels Show?

The temperature outside might get very hot. This might prove to be harmful to people who have been waiting outside for hours to watch the show.

What can be done to prevent falling sick?

It is advised that the visitors to the show wear light colored clothes and drink a plenty of water.

Description

The National Museum of Naval Aviation is known as one of the largest and most remarkable air and space museums in the world. While displaying monumental aircraft the museum also has a number interesting and unusual exhibits. The aircraft and exhibit section allows one to learn the story each of the 150 aircraft on display has to tell. Stories of dodging spontaneous gunfire on a stormy tumultuous night and becoming survivors in great aerial battles, or being hit and falling to their demise. However, these aircraft have been restored so that their story of challenge and courage can be put forward to the average people. The planes on display include NC-4, this plane was the first one to cross the Atlantic by air; the Que Sera Sera, the first plane to land at the South Pole; the last F-14D Tomcat and many others. There are also exhibitions of vintage uniforms and historic documents, undoubtedly these effects of the war have captured the true effects of the war and will only allow people to get a closer look into the events that has shaped the history. Then there is the HD Motion-Based Simulator, which is a five-minute ride that employs the audio-video components and the motion from the riding compartment to generate a multi-sensory experience.

Flying with the Blue Angels:

The simulator capsule employs up to 15 passengers. AS it can move in six directions, it allows the passengers to perform horizontal rolls, longitudinal pitches, and vertical climbs. The newest attraction here now is ‘Flying with the Blue Angels’. Located in Hangar Bay, this ride gives a complete 4D experience with all the thrill and the high-performance turns and maneuvers. This new technology uses interactive seats and unique special effects and 3D images, it feels as if one is performing with the Blue Angles. If one craves more form the Blue Angels, they can see the Angels practice and can even get an autograph. The Blue Angles are seen to practice above the Museum at NAS Pensacola on most mornings of Tuesday and Wednesday, from the month of March to November. This aerial show of about 55 minutes is completely free of cost. The viewing area is located on the Museum Flight Line, north of the Museum. Signs are used to guiding the spectators to the correct place. After the Blue Angles are done with their spectacular show up in the air, they come down to meet and greet fans of all ages. After most Wednesday practices they also sign autographs inside the National Aviation Museum.

Cubi Bar Café, which started in 1996 is not just a restaurant, but a historic exhibition on its own. It was created based on the famous Cubi Point Officers’ Club. This club was situated in the Republic of Philippines, and the club enjoyed a glorious mix of Americans and Filipinos. However, after 40 years of catering to the soldiers, the club closed down. It is now open daily and offers hot soups, fresh salads, sandwiches, and desserts.