Stepping into the Qantas Founders Museum in Longreach is like walking through the pages of Australian aviation history, with a modern twist for the adventurous. For $99 per person, you get a full-day exploration that covers everything from vintage aircraft to the iconic Boeing 747 flight deck, including a wing walk—an experience that’s as unforgettable as it sounds. Tours are limited to small groups, ensuring a personalized, engaging experience, and guides like Ryan or Mark bring a wealth of knowledge and humor that makes the day fly by.
What we love about this experience are two standout features: first, the access to historic aircraft like the Douglas DC-3, Catalina, and Lockheed Super Constellation, which are rare glimpses into the golden age of air travel. Second, the opportunity to walk on the wing of a Boeing 747—a heart-pumping moment that really captures the essence of aviation. The only caveat is that the tour requires some physical activity and is not suitable for those afraid of heights or with mobility challenges. This tour suits aviation buffs, history lovers, and anyone eager for an authentic, hands-on experience in Australia’s outback.
Key Points
- In-Depth Aircraft Exploration: Walk through historic planes like the Douglas DC-3 and Lockheed Super Constellation.
- Cockpit & Wing Walk: Climb into the pilot’s seat of a Boeing 747 and walk on the wing—an adrenaline rush for most.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides, often with a great sense of humor, make the history come alive.
- Authentic Vintage & Modern Aircraft: See artifacts from early flights to the first Australian jet.
- Limited Group Size: Small groups (max 6) ensure a more personal, less rushed experience.
- Extra Photos & Memorabilia: Opportunity to purchase photos inside the engines for a keepsake.
An Overview of the Tour
This tour offers a comprehensive look at a century of Qantas history, blending vintage aircraft, modern jets, and interactive experiences. Starting with the main museum hall, you’ll find exhibits like the Avro 504k replica, a Rolls Royce RB211 engine from a Boeing 747, and artifacts from Qantas’s earliest days. The experience then ventures into the National Heritage Listed Qantas Hangar, Australia’s oldest civil aviation structure, where you’ll see iconic planes like the DH-50, the aircraft behind the Royal Flying Doctor Service, and the DH-61, the first aircraft with a toilet onboard.
The highlight is the guided 90-minute Airpark Tour, led by enthusiastic guides like Mark or Ryan, who bring aircraft to life with fascinating stories and humor. But the real star of the day is the Boeing 747. You’ll explore its upper deck, peek into the cockpit, and even stand inside one of its four Rolls Royce engines—an impressive feat that helps you appreciate the scale and complexity of this flying behemoth. The crescendo is the wing walk, where you harness up and step onto the wing—an experience that combines awe with a dash of adrenaline.
In-Depth Look at Aircraft and Artifacts
Vintage Planes and Early Aircraft Exhibits
The tour begins with a walk through the main museum hall, which exhibits aircraft and artifacts spanning the entire history of Qantas. The Avro 504k replica offers a glimpse into Australia’s earliest aviation days, while the Bristol Fighter WWI simulator provides a sense of the challenges early aviators faced. The Rolls Royce RB211 engine from a Boeing 747 gives you an appreciation for the engineering marvels that make modern flight possible.
Heritage Listed Hangar and Historic Aircraft
Venturing into the heritage-listed hangar reveals planes like the DH-50, which was instrumental in the development of Australian civil aviation, and the DH-61, notable for being the first aircraft in the world with a toilet onboard! Seeing these artifacts up close gives you a tangible connection to the pioneering spirit of Australian aviation.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Airpark Excursion
Your guided tour of the Airpark takes you among several aircraft, including the legendary Douglas DC-3—the workhorse of early commercial aviation—and the Lockheed Super Constellation, which epitomized the golden age of air travel. Viewing the Catalina amphibious aircraft transports you to a different era, when flying boats were vital for remote routes.
The Boeing 707 and 747
Next, you’ll explore the Boeing 707, Australia’s first jet aircraft, with stories of its incredible journey—featuring visits from Saudi princes, Michael Jackson, and John Travolta, plus the largest sum spent by the museum to acquire a jet. This plane is a testament to Qantas’s bold move into the jet age.
Then comes the Queen of the Skies, the Boeing 747-200. You’ll walk through its upper deck, peek into the cockpit, and stand inside a Rolls Royce engine—an awe-inspiring moment that makes aviation engineering feel real and tangible.
The Ultimate Wing Walk and Flight Deck Tour
The pièce de résistance is the flight deck & wing walk. Climbing into the cockpit, you’ll be greeted by 900+ switches, knobs, and levers—a true marvel of design and complexity. Guides like Graham or Ryan will explain what each part does, making you feel like a real pilot for a few moments. The wing walk takes that excitement a step further—walking on the wing of a Boeing 747, harnessed in, with panoramic views of the Outback around Longreach.
Reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and humor—Gail mentions how helpful staff were when her husband fell sick just before the tour, and Graham’s guide explained everything clearly, making even the most technical details accessible.
Practical Details and Experience Value
The tour includes museum entry, the airpark tour, and the cockpit & wing walk, all for $99. This is an excellent value considering the depth of access and the intimate size of the groups—max 6 participants. The small group setting enhances your chance to ask questions and capture photos without feeling rushed.
What to Bring and Considerations
You’ll need closed-toe shoes for safety, especially for the wing walk, and long pants or shorts are recommended since harnesses are used. The tour is only suitable for those 12 years and older and not recommended for individuals with mobility issues or those afraid of heights.
While the lunch or drinks aren’t included, the museum has facilities, and nearby Longreach offers options for a break. Also, note that the Luminescent Longreach Light and Sound show isn’t part of this package.
Duration & Timing
The tour typically runs in the morning and lasts about 4-5 hours, making it manageable for a full day but not overwhelming. It’s perfect for aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, or families with older children who want a hands-on experience.
Summary: Who Will Love This Tour?
This First Class Experience is ideal for anyone interested in aviation, history, or engineering. The guided approach, depth of aircraft access, and interactive moments like the cockpit and wing walk make it particularly appealing for adventure seekers and aviation buffs. It’s also an excellent choice for those who appreciate authentic stories and personal insights from passionate guides.
If you’re in Longreach for a day and want a meaningful, immersive activity that goes beyond typical museum visits, this tour offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at Australia’s airline legacy.
FAQs
Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s designed for ages 12 and up, mainly due to safety requirements and the physical nature of the wing walk. Children under 12 are not permitted.
How physically demanding is the wing walk?
The wing walk involves harnessing and standing on the wing of a large aircraft—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with heights and physical activity.
Are photos allowed during the tour?
Yes, you can take photos inside the aircraft and cockpit, and there’s an option to purchase photos inside the engine for a keepsake.
What happens if I’m nervous about heights?
The wing walk is optional, so if heights are a concern, you can enjoy the cockpit and aircraft interior without participating in the wing walk.
How long does the whole experience last?
Including museum entry, guided tours, and the wing walk, the experience takes around 4-5 hours.
Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to the nature of aircraft access and the wing walk.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for travel plans.
Final Thoughts
The Longreach Qantas Founders Museum First Class Experience offers a compelling mix of history, engineering, and adventure. With knowledgeable guides, intimate group sizes, and the thrill of walking on a 747 wing, it’s a memorable way to connect with Australia’s aviation story. Whether you’re an airplane enthusiast or simply looking for a unique outback activity, this tour provides real value and authentic experiences that bring history to life.
Perfect for those who enjoy hands-on learning, stunning aircraft views, and a little bit of adrenaline, it’s a rare opportunity to step inside the world of commercial aviation. Just make sure you’re comfortable with heights and physical activity—this is a truly interactive, behind-the-scenes peek at one of Australia’s most iconic industries.
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