Exhibitions

World War II Aviation

July 1, 1976 – January 2, 2019

National Air and Space Museum
6th St. & Independence Ave., SW
Washington, DC

2nd Floor, West Wing, World War II Aviation, Gallery 205

See on Map Floor Plan

This gallery highlights land-based aviation during World War II and features fighter aircraft from each of 5 countries.

Highlights include:

  • North American P-51D Mustang: an outstanding fighter plane used in every theater of war
  • Mitsubishi A6M5 Zero: maneuverability and range were excellent; the Japanese navy used it in almost every action throughout the war
  • Supermarine Spitfire Mark VII: the legendary British fighter used to defeat the Germans in the Battle of Britain, along with the Hurricane
  • Messerschmitt Bf 109G: the principle Luftwaffe fighter; major opponent of the Spitfires and American bombers
  • Macchi C.202 Folgore: the most successful Italian fighter to see extensive service; used in the African campaign and in Italy and Russia