In the so-called ‘Golden Age of Aviation’, Britain and its Empire were world leaders in private flying. There were 59 subsidised flying clubs, more than a dozen major manufacturers, and hundreds of owner-pilots — an increasing number of them women. They set dozens of records and pioneered air routes all over the world.

They were amongst the most famous people of their day. Today they are largely forgotten. This website gathers their stories — the aviators, the races they flew, and the aeroplanes they flew in.

The men and women who raced, pioneered and flew for fun.

King's Cups, MacRobertson and the great contests of the age.

Moths, Gulls, Swallows and the machines they flew.

The first women to take to the skies of the Empire

Charting the air routes across the British Empire

Flying clubs, joyriders, air taxis and owner-pilots