Philippine Air Force Aerospace Museum

Posted by Ian Galliguez in To Do | 0 comments

For the past couple of months, we decided that the kids were ready to participate in family activities. (The kids’ age range from 5 to 8 years old) Part of the training we’re giving them (aside from chores) is that they get to choose what to do for the weekend. We call it their “special day”. Truthfully, they were waiting for us to tell them what we were going to do or where we were going to go because all they know at this time is either the mall or the beach or my relatives’ homes. So, we based it on their interests.

This week was Kuya’s Choice and since he likes planes and flying, he said he wanted to see planes to touch and ride. Real planes. “Anak naman…kahit piso fare, mahal pa rin yang trip mo.” But, being a parent like I am, I had to figure out a way for my special boy to get to see, touch and ride planes without actually paying for a trip somewhere. I did a bit of research and I found the Philippine Air Force Aerospace Museum at the Villamor Air Base.

The museum is right next to the NAIA 3 and Resorts World. It opened its doors on June 2007 during the 60th year anniversary of the Philippine Air Force. And with all due respect, when they stated that they have made improvements through the years, they really made a lot of improvements! Granted, it’s not the MET or the Louvre but take a look at the photo when it opened (that’s the lobby)

and take a look at it now (same lobby).

This was one museum that everyone really and sincerely enjoyed being in. For the boys, it was the fact that they can freely touch, ride and/or play with the planes and the many knobs and switches a helicopter or plane has on. Dave loves planes so that’s a no brainer, our daughter loves the science that goes behind flight and how these big machines fly like birds. I liked the fact that our Filipino history, culture and heritage is showcased. Oh and they also have a very cool flight simulator that you can try for a small fee. (Editor’s note: It was unfortunate that the flight simulator was not available at the time we were there. The guy in charge said that there was a software problem and that they’re still troubleshooting it. But for Php100, you can have a go at it and see if you have what it takes to be a pilot.)

We need to go UP!

The highlight of the trip? The huge “playground” of helicopters and planes outside! These aircrafts are permanently on display and with some of them, you are actually encouraged to go ahead and explore. The Huey and the private plane (donated by Philippine Airlines) was a great hit. Now they said that the third floor is a viewing deck. We weren’t able to see any way to go to the 3rd floor but be sure that we will go back there.

For only twenty pesos, you can enjoy the very interactive and entertaining PAF Aerospace museum! The museum is open Mondays to Fridays from 8AM until 5PM and on Saturdays from 8AM until 12NN. While you’re there, buy some really cool t-shirts or caps. I wanted to get the stickers and the pins but the person in charge wasn’t there. Another great reason to go back then. For more information, you can read all about the history of the museum here or you can call them at 8323498