This Museum has over many years built up an enviable collection of airframes and engines, it is also home to the No. 605 Squadron of the Royal Air Force tribute which includes not only collectibles but also a Vampire in the post War Squadron markings.
Fortunately this interesting collection along with a small number of aircraft and airframes is kept inside an excellent dry building, outside the story is not so good as the airframes are showing signs of suffering being exposed to the elements.
The Museum has an enthusiastic band of helpers, some highly skilled ex RAF engineers as well as students who spend many hours looking after the aircraft in their care. All concerned need to be congratulated for doing their best in very difficult circumstances, the ideal would be for the aircraft to be under cover, my own view is that the time has come when all aircraft collections should now aim to get the aircraft they look after into hangars, it is no longer a joy to see the aircraft slowly rotting away.
I hasten to add that I in no way criticise this Museum or any other, if money was not a problem then I know that the aircraft would be in the dry, but, for the 21st Century this should be the aim otherwise there will not be the aircraft around for future generations to enjoy.
I am particularly sad about the DHC2 Beaver which flew into Coventry when first acquired, it now sits forlorn, the engine seized, an example of a simple aircraft which could easily at little expense have been kept alive, now, in poor condition. A collection this size, including some very large aircraft, is I would imagine a nightmare to look after, an almost impossible task with limited funding.
On a positive note this is a collection which should be visited and supported, Coventry Airport has a long and interesting history and is home to Air Atlantique with the company operating a number of wonderful piston engine aircraft.