Air Mobility Command Museum | Dover

A Tribute to Aviation and Military Heritage
The Air Mobility Command Museum, located at Dover Air Force Base in Dover, Delaware, is one of the nation’s premier museums dedicated to military airlift and refueling operations. Established on the grounds of a historic World War II hangar, the museum preserves and interprets the history of air mobility, from the earliest cargo planes to modern jet-powered aircraft. It serves as both a center of education and a tribute to the men and women who have supported global air transport, humanitarian missions, and national defense.

Aircraft Collection and Exhibits
The museum’s extensive outdoor and indoor exhibits showcase more than thirty aircraft, each representing a milestone in aviation history. Among them are the iconic C-47 Skytrain, the massive C-5 Galaxy, and the sleek KC-135 Stratotanker, all displayed with meticulous care. Visitors can walk beneath towering wings, step inside aircraft cockpits, and observe the evolution of technology that transformed air mobility from the propeller era to modern jet engines. The indoor galleries feature detailed displays on flight crews, navigational tools, uniforms, and the logistics of global airlift missions.

Historical Significance
Originally part of the Dover Army Airfield, the site played a vital role during World War II as a training and transport hub. Over the decades, it became a cornerstone of the U.S. Air Force’s strategic mobility operations. The museum chronicles this evolution, highlighting the transition from wartime logistics to Cold War readiness and modern humanitarian aid missions. Each aircraft and exhibit tells a story of innovation, courage, and service that shaped both American aviation and international operations.

Visitor Experience and Educational Programs
The Air Mobility Command Museum offers free admission, allowing visitors of all ages to explore its exhibits and aircraft at their own pace. Guided tours, often led by retired pilots and crew members, provide firsthand insights into the realities of flight and mission life. Interactive displays and flight simulators engage younger audiences, while educational programs and special events-such as Open Cockpit Days-invite guests to experience aviation up close. The museum also features a restoration hangar, where visitors can observe the painstaking process of aircraft preservation.

A Living Legacy of Flight and Service
The Air Mobility Command Museum stands as more than a collection of planes-it is a living chronicle of American ingenuity and global service. Each aircraft, exhibit, and personal story honors those who have flown, maintained, and supported the U.S. Air Force’s vital missions. For aviation enthusiasts, veterans, and families alike, a visit to the museum offers both inspiration and a deep appreciation for the power of flight and the spirit of those who make it possible.