A specialist team of high-flying “Dustbusters” recently completed the annual spring clean of suspended aircraft at the RAF Museum Midlands. Dangling up to 100 feet in the air, the team carefully dusted eight iconic aircraft, including a Vulcan bomber, as part of routine maintenance and inspection. Other aircraft that received a refresh included a Canberra, Meteor, Sabre, Hunter, Lightning, Dakota, and Javelin—each displayed within the Museum’s National Cold War Exhibition. Secured in harnesses, the specialist cleaning crew climbed the rafters and abseiled down to reach the aircraft, using only large soft-fiber mops—without any cleaning solutions.
Beyond removing dust, the team also conducted safety inspections of the suspension cables that support these historic aircraft in their dramatic flying display positions. This year, the spring clean extended beyond the National Cold War Exhibition. Several older aircraft in other display hangars, including a Second World War Wellington bomber, were also dusted. Hard-to-reach aircraft such as the Lincoln, TSR2, JU88, Bristol M.1C, and Hart were given a light cleaning to keep them in top condition.
Tom Hopkins, Curator at RAF Museum Midlands, highlighted the importance of this meticulous work: “Preserving aircraft in our collection went far beyond simple display. Each aircraft and vehicle underwent regular inspections and cleaning by our skilled Technicians and Volunteers. However, suspended aircraft in our National Cold War Exhibition presented a unique challenge. Some were positioned up to 100 feet in the air, requiring a specialist team with the right skills and equipment. It was fascinating to watch them in action, and their efforts ensured our aircraft remained in top condition for visitors to enjoy.”
Visitors at the Museum had the opportunity to witness the high-flying team from Totally Wild Access, industrial rope access specialists, as they carried out the cleaning. The RAF Museum Midlands remains open daily from 10:00 AM, with free admission. Plan your visit at rafmuseum.org/midlands.
