Merville’s Collection of Vintage Airliners

by Matt Falcus November 23, 2018

written by Matt Falcus November 23, 2018

Boeing 727 and Nord Noratlas at Merville. Photo (c) Erik Ritterbach

Merville-Calonne Airport in northern France can make an interesting diversion for fans of vintage airliners.

Located 85km south of Calais, 230km north of Paris, and close to the border with Belgium, it is easily reached via the motorway network.

Merville itself is largely a general aviation airport which is home to private flyers and flying clubs. It has no airline service at present.

However, in the northern corner of the airport you’ll find the Institut Aeronautique Amaury de la Grange.

This is an organisation which specialises in aeronautical training in the areas of maintenance, manufacturing, airports and pilot training. As part of its base you’ll find a number of retired airliners which are used to develop technical skills.

The collection includes:

F-BOJA (19543/541) Boeing 727, ex-Air France
F-BHRT (055) Sud SE.210 Caravelle 3, ex-Air France (inside hangar)
F-GCVK (276) Sud SE.210 Caravelle 12, ex-Air Inter
F-BMCF (054) Vickers Viscount 724, ex-Air Inter
129 Nord Noratlas 2501, ex-French Air Force

View from the D32C road as it passes the northern end of the airfield. Photo (c) Erik Ritterbach

Caravelle F-GCVK at Merville. Photo (c) Erik Ritterbach

Viscount F-BMCF. Photo (c) Erik RitterbachIn these pictures, taken on a recent visit, Erik Ritterbach shows what condition the aircraft are in, and what the views are like.

To see these classic aircraft, which are all parked outside (except F-BHRT), follow signs for the Institut Aeronautique Amaury de la Grange as you approach the airport by road.

Whilst most aircraft can be seen outside the Institut, it is best to ask permission to take photographs or walk closer.

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