Southern Museum of Flight showcases over 120 aircraft alongside aviation stories

The museum's collection illustrates the evolution of personal flying within the broader aviation industry. One of the showcased general aviation aircraft is the Piper PA-28-140 Cherokee Cruiser, known for its use in training and recreational flying.

The Cessna Super Skymaster display honors its role during its operations in the late 1960s. The aircraft operated as a Forward Air Controller, coordinating air support to enhance strike accuracy and mitigate risks.

The Beechcraft Starship, designed by Scaled Composites in 1983, is noted for its composite materials and glass cockpit. However, commercial success was limited due to its avant-garde design and market conditions.

The Republic RC-3 Seabee amphibian, developed post-World War II, offered recreation and accessibility for travelers, while the Huff-Daland crop duster, the first designed for aerial agricultural work, marked a turning point for Delta Air Lines.

The T-37B Tweet served as a primary trainer for the US Air Force, with updates such as enhanced engines and avionics ensuring its utility for training.

"Aviation artifacts wonders on display at the Southern Museum of Flight reveal not just technical achievements but the stories behind them," said Dr. Rundall Law, the museum's curator. "All of these objects that we have, every single one of these objects we have here is a story. For me, it's the stories that are lurking in every corner of the museum that make it so much fun to work here."