A runway, jets, flight simulator and other curiosities are some of the things you will find at the “Clin d’Ailes” Museum of Military Aviation in Payerne, between Yverdon-les-Bains and Avenches. A military aerodrome used for civil purposes, Payerne airport hosts major air shows, like AIR 14, marking the centenary of Swiss military aviation.
Situated on the main operational base for Swiss F/A-18s, the “Clin d’Ailes” Museum of Military Aviation tells the story of military aviation in the second half of the 20th century. The aircraft on show, including the Vampire, Mirage III, Venom and Hunter, demonstrate the rapid progress in made in terms of aerodynamics and materials used.
Easy to get to, the museum offers stunning views of the air base runway and access to the taxiway allowing the use of the aircraft. Visitors can watch sorties by F/A-18 Hornets, F-5 Tigers and Super Pumas from the museum’s terraces.
In the central foyer, there is a unique exhibition of five jets and 2 suspended helicopters. Nearby, there’s a flight simulator the public can use to test their aptitudes.
On the upper floor, there is an area dedicated to the Swiss astronaut Claude Nicollier with various space equipment and videos to watch.
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