What if you could access decades of aviation collectibles from the comfort of your own home? How cool would it be to experience the first flight of a particular plane or airline, to review timetables from years gone by, or leaf through the original sales brochure for aviation icons like Concorde? Well, you can, and it’s all down to the hard work and dedication of one man.
The Airchive is perhaps the world’s most comprehensive collection of aviation-related materials, from brochures, menus, and safety cards to an enormous collection of photographs and accounts of special flights and events. Simple Flying caught up with Chris Sloan, founder of the Airchive, to find out what inspired him to start his collection and led him to share it with the world for free.
Starting from a young age
Chris’ obsession with aviation began as a kid, growing up in Tulsa under the shadow of American Airlines’ enormous maintenance base. The airline was the largest employer in the region, and a major influence on Chris during his formative years. He also notes how the exotic tails often spotted when visiting family in Miami further fueled his love of all things aviation.
