I have been lucky over the years to have had the opportunity to have a look inside a few aircraft (highlight being the BBMF Lanc at Blackpool). Live aircraft are a different kettle of fish and genuine concerns regarding FOD and inquisitive fingers playing with controls and instruments are not to be dismissed lightly.
The one thing that gets me is the number of static exhibits in museums that paying guests are not allowed to look over in more detail. Sure, when the museum is busy it is not always practical to allow access, but if the time and effort has been taken to restore the interior, then go ahead and show it off a little more widely when things are quiet (perhaps the state of the interiors are not quite as we are led to believe, but does that matter?)
For me, to have a truly “interactive” experience at an Aviation heritage museum, then access should be expected (perhaps we could all do with being a little more proactive and asking for access or giving feedback?).
Let’s not also forget that risk assessment is a dynamic process, not the heavy duty monolith carried by museums. So, if we as individuals take more responsibility (I would personally sign a disclaimer to allow me to get closer to the exhibits), then perhaps the situation might be able to change.
Exdigger…
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