Our Mission

Our Mission & Vision

The Irish Historic Flight Foundation (IHFF) was established in December 2014 with a clear purpose: to preserve, restore, maintain and operate historic aircraft connected to Ireland’s aviation story. Rather than becoming a static museum, IHFF believes that historic aircraft should remain airworthy and flying, bringing aviation heritage to life for audiences across Ireland and beyond.

From the outset, the Foundation has focused on ensuring that rare and iconic aircraft remain in flying condition, supported by volunteer engineers, pilots and aviation enthusiasts working alongside industry partners.

Mission

Where We Are Today & Where We're Going

Where We Are Today

Since its founding, IHFF has developed from a small volunteer initiative into a recognised national heritage flight organisation with an active flying programme and a growing historic collection. The Foundation’s aircraft — including three de Havilland DHC‑1 Chipmunks and a Boeing Stearman Model 75 — are regularly flown at local and national aviation events around Ireland.

In 2020, IHFF moved its operations to a purpose‑built hangar at Ballyboy Airfield in Athboy, Co. Meath, providing a dedicated base for restoration, maintenance, and flight operations. The new hangar creates a stable operational foundation for the aircraft and support activities.

Looking Ahead

While early plans for a dedicated “aviation experience centre” were set out in the Foundation’s first years, IHFF’s current approach emphasises sustainable growth, active operations, and integrated heritage outreach that reflect the realities and opportunities of the present day.

The organisation continues to pursue ways to expand its reach, enrich its collections, and deepen its connection with the public — all while preserving the core mission of keeping Ireland’s historic aircraft not only intact but flying.

1. Sustained Flying Programme

IHFF remains committed to flying its historic aircraft at events around Ireland, strengthening public access to aviation heritage. Through partnerships with sponsors such as ASL Aviation Holdings, the organisation plans to maintain, expand, and enhance flying appearances at local and national airshows.

2. Enhanced Heritage Displays

Beyond flight operations, IHFF is assembling a heritage collection of artefacts that chronicle Ireland’s aviation achievements. These collections are made available for display with partner organisations, deepening public appreciation of Ireland’s contributions to aviation history.

3. Expanded Operational Base at Ballyboy

The development of Ballyboy Airfield as a year‑round operational base enables IHFF to continue aircraft maintenance, storage, and restoration, providing a stable home from which future expansion can grow. The improved runway and hangar infrastructure support visiting aircraft, events, and a broader vintage flying community.

4. Community Engagement and Cultural Recognition

IHFF aims to broaden engagement with local communities, aviation enthusiasts, schools, and heritage groups by participating in public fly‑ins, charity events, and collaborative cultural programmes. Increased participation helps integrate aviation heritage within Ireland’s broader cultural and historical narrative.