Lancaster and Dakota C-47 Aircraft Tour in Perth
Step inside two of the most important aircraft of World War II and experience their design, purpose and scale up close. This guided aircraft tour gives you rare access to both a restored heavy bomber and a transport plane that operated across multiple theatres — offering a complete view of how air missions were carried out.
You move through the restored Lancaster’s narrow fuselage, stepping over the wing spars, sitting at crew stations and seeing how each role functioned during long and demanding operations. You then enter the Dakota C-47, climb into the cockpit and study the layout that supported troop movements, supply runs and coordination across difficult environments.
This aviation experience brings together structure, storytelling and direct access in a way few Lancaster and Dakota tours can offer. Book your session today and explore both aircraft from the inside!
Explore Two Icons: The Avro Lancaster & Dakota C-47
The Avro Lancaster aircraft played a central role in Bomber Command operations as it was crafted for long-range missions that required precision, coordination and endurance. As a heavy bomber, the Lancaster aircraft carried significant payloads across occupied Europe, with crews operating in confined conditions over extended periods.
In contrast, the Dakota C47 became known as the workhorse of the skies; it was built to transport troops, equipment and supplies across a wide range of environments. It was critical during operations such as D-Day, where paratroopers were deployed behind enemy lines, and continued to support global operations through logistics and coordination roles.
Together, these restored WWII aircraft present a complete picture of wartime aviation. One delivered force from the air, while the other ensured missions could be sustained on the ground. For those looking to step beyond the static displays, the Bomber Command VR Experience offers a chance to understand what crews faced firsthand.
What to Expect: An Immersive 1940s Aviation Experience
Tour & Experiences
- 2.25 Hours
- $165.00
Tour Description
This assisted experience places you inside two operational environments where structure, movement and storytelling combine to bring history into focus. As part of these World War II tours, you move through each aircraft with an expert guide who explains how crews worked together under pressure and how each space was used during active missions.
Inside the Lancaster, the confined structure becomes immediately apparent. You move carefully through narrow sections, pass crew stations, and see how limited space shaped communication, coordination and endurance across long flights. Each position reflects a specific role, giving you a clear sense of how the aircraft functioned as a complete system.
You then transition to the Dakota, where the layout opens into a practical cargo and transport environment. You explore the bay, examine seating arrangements and view into the cockpit to understand how navigation and control supported troop and supply operations. This balance of access and interpretation makes it one of the most engaging World War II museum tours, where physical space and historical context work together.
$165.00 per person includes Museum entry for tour participant.
Please allow approximately 2.25 hours for the Lancaster and Dakota C47 tour.
Our tours and experiences operate during Museum operating times. Tour and experiences are operated by our volunteers and times/days of operations are subject to change. During the Summer months, tours and experiences will only be conducted in the morning due to the heat. Please contact the Aviation Heritage Museum to book your tour and/or experience prior to visiting the museum.
Aviation Heritage Museum – Bull Creek Drive, Bull Creek WA 6149
Bookings for this tour must be made prior to visiting the museum.
One of the Best Unique & Indoor Things to Do in Perth
For those looking for things to do in Perth that go beyond the expected, this guided aircraft tour offers rare indoor access to two historically significant war aircraft, and not just from behind a barrier. With an expert guide leading the experience, the stories, context and operational details behind each aircraft transform the tour from a simple walkthrough into something far more immersive.
Few experiences in Perth put you this close to aviation history. It runs entirely indoors, making it one of the most dependable things to do inside year-round, whether you’re visiting in the height of summer or a rainy winter weekend.
For tourists and locals alike, it consistently stands out among fun things to do in Perth that combine hands-on exploration with fascinating aviation history. Rather than simply viewing these aircraft from the outside, you get to experience the scale, design and atmosphere from within.
Ready to visit? Find everything you need on our Plan Your Visit page, including opening hours, location and booking details.
A Must-Visit for Families and School Groups
Our guided tour is one of the most engaging things to do in Perth with kids because of the structured way it explores history beyond the classroom. The experience suits older children and teens i.e. ages 12 and above, with enough depth to hold attention while remaining clear and easy to follow.
Instead of reading from displays, you move through real aircraft and see how each section was used during service. The Lancaster introduces the confined environment of a bomber crew, while the Dakota shows how transport missions supported operations across multiple regions. This direct access helps turn abstract history into something tangible and easier to understand.
For school groups, the experience supports curriculum learning through guided interpretation and real-world historical context. Families can also enjoy the tour together, with the scale of the aircraft, interactive access and storytelling creating an experience that appeals across generations. With shared access to both the Lancaster and Dakota, it offers a memorable and educational outing for visitors of all ages.
Corporate Team Building & Private Group Tours
If you are planning corporate activities in Perth, this guided aircraft tour offers a structured and memorable alternative to standard team outings. Moving through both aircraft as a group creates a shared experience, while the stories behind the crews, missions and operational conditions add a layer of perspective that goes beyond a typical tour.
For HR managers exploring corporate team building activities in Perth, the experience supports small group visits, guided sessions and private bookings. It provides a focused environment where teams can engage, reflect and experience something genuinely different together.
Corporate sessions can be arranged directly with the museum to discuss preferred dates, group sizes and booking requirements. To enquire, please contact the museum on 08 9311 4470 or email museum@raafawa.org.au.
Vistor Reviews - Hear What People Have to Say About The Tour!
From aviation enthusiasts and history buffs to families and interstate travellers, our visitors come from all walks of life to experience the Lancaster and Dakota up close. Read what past guests had to say about the guided tour experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The tour runs for approximately 2.25 hours, giving visitors enough time to explore both aircraft in detail through guided interpretation and immersive access.
Access to the aircraft involves steps and confined internal spaces, so it may not be suitable for all visitors. A moderate level of mobility is required to fully participate.
Yes. Advance bookings are recommended, as tour places are limited and can fill quickly.
Book Your Session Today
At $165 per person, this historical tour in Perth is a distinctive premium experience; it’s a rare opportunity to move through two legendary wartime aircraft in a way few people ever do.
For aviation enthusiasts, history lovers and visitors seeking something genuinely memorable, the experience offers far more than a traditional museum visit. Walking through the Lancaster and Dakota firsthand gives you a close-up perspective of the scale, structure and operational spaces that shaped their role in wartime history.
With limited sessions available, advanced bookings are recommended. Book your session today to secure your place.
Gift vouchers available for special tours.
The perfect gift for someone that has everything!