Ballooning in Hampshire
Ballooning in HampshireRight on Adventure Balloons doorstep at Farnborough there is a unique piece of ballooning history. In 1905 the Governments Balloon Factory moved to Farnborough, having previously been based in Aldershot and prior to that Woolwich. They took over common land that has since gone on to become the home of the internationally known Farnborough Airshow. It continued to be known as the Balloon Factory for only more 6 years, at which time it changed its name in quick succession to the Army Aircraft Factory and the Royal Aircraft Factory. The manufacture of balloons ceased on the site in 1916, but continued to manufacture fixed wing aircraft. A further name change in 1918 and the Royal Aircraft Establishment was born. The Kite balloons which included tail fins for stability in wind were developed here and used in both World Wars. The first Airship flew from Farnborough to London in October 1907 but returned by road, deflated. Other airships and balloons were built at Farnborough but they were gradually overshadowed by the aeroplane. For more information about the factory try this site TIMELINE
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