RAF Museum and Virgin Atlantic Enter Into a Strategic Partnership
The Royal Air Force Museum (RAF Museum) located in London, England, has recently announced a significant collaboration with Virgin Atlantic, marking a new chapter as the museum’s official airline partner. This partnership involves Virgin Atlantic facilitating international travel for RAF Museum representatives, particularly to the United States. This is crucial for attending events organized by the RAF Museum’s American Foundation, which are pivotal in supporting the museum’s fundraising initiatives in North America.
According to an official statement by the RAF Museum, this partnership underscores a mutual commitment to “inspire everyone with the RAF story, while preserving and celebrating aviation history and strengthening transatlantic connections.” Edward Sharman, Head of Development at the RAF Museum, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration. He highlighted that Virgin Atlantic’s robust transatlantic routes would significantly bolster engagement with US-based supporters.
As a registered charity, the RAF Museum relies on such partnerships to maintain and enhance its exhibitions and collections. The synergy between Virgin Atlantic’s mission and the RAF’s legacy promises to enrich the museum’s offerings and honor the RAF’s enduring legacy.
Details of the Partnership
The partnership was formalized during a visit by Virgin Atlantic representatives to the RAF Museum’s London site. The visit included a comprehensive tour led by museum volunteers and utilization of the museum’s meeting facilities. As part of the partnership, Virgin Atlantic’s staff will enjoy exclusive access to behind-the-scenes experiences, public events, and discounts on venue hires, along with opportunities for corporate volunteering at the RAF Museum’s sites in Hendon, North London, and Cosford in the Midlands.
Thomas Maynard, Director of Global Corporate Sales at Virgin Atlantic, commented on the partnership, noting, “The US is Virgin Atlantic’s heartland, and we are delighted to support the RAF Museum as its Official Airline Partner, transporting guests across the Atlantic in style.” He emphasized that the partnership aligns with Virgin Atlantic’s mission to inspire global citizens and will help the RAF Museum educate visitors about the RAF’s significant history and contributions to aviation.
The RAF Museum in London showcases a vast collection spanning 100 years of the Royal Air Force’s operations. It features six hangars filled with aircraft, interactive exhibits, and immersive experiences. Additionally, visitors can engage with flight simulators, listen to poignant stories from RAF servicemen and women, and explore special exhibitions and events designed for families, all aimed at commemorating the RAF’s rich history.