Aviation Archaeology

The hobby dates to post- World War II Europe when, after the conflict, numerous aircraft wrecks studded the countryside. Many times, memorials to those involved in the crashes were put together by individuals, families, landholders, or communities.

These wreck sites also became a valuable resource, as the practice of flying vintage aircraft associated with the war grew. Spare parts could be gathered from wrecked aircraft to replace failing equipment in an airworthy example of the same aircraft, hence extending its operational lifespan.

As the hobby grew in size and popularity, laws and regulations were created in some areas to counter problems the hobbyists created, such as Trespassing . In the United Kingdom , it is currently illegal to interfere with the crash site of a military aircraft without a government license.

In the United States , the hobby remains relatively unknown, and enjoys little regulation. However, under the 'Sunken Military Craft Act', it is illegal to disturb the wreck sites of U.S. Naval aircraft and, under NTSB part 830, any aircraft whose accident cause is under investigation.

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Aviation Archaeology