The unmissable cultural event of the season is back, inviting us to experience a handful of unusual experiences across the region for the Heritage Days 2026. Over a weekend, major historic sites, hidden spaces, and technical facilities present an original program to share their know-how and memory with curious visitors of all ages.
In the Yvelines, the Chavenay-Villepreux Airfield sits squarely within this momentum, opening its doors to the public right up to the edge of the runways. Developed in the late 1930s for popular and recreational aviation, this site, run by Groupe ADP, stretches across about a hundred hectares amid rolling fields. A valuable witness to the growth of civil aviation in Île-de-France, the field hosts several historic flying clubs that keep the passion for flight alive on a daily basis.
On the occasion of Heritage Days, the site transforms into a genuine family-friendly aviation festival. Visitors can admire carefully restored vintage aircraft, chat with seasoned pilots and dedicated mechanics, or peek behind the scenes of flight training.
Exhibition: The History of the Chavenay-Villepreux Airfield
Chavenay-Villepreux Aerodrome: nearly 80 years of aviation history
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### An exhibition dedicated to the history of the Chavenay-Villepreux aerodrome is on display.
From its military origins to a gradual shift toward civil aviation, this airfield has seen a remarkable procession of aircraft over the decades—from gliders to light aviation, and even private planes.
Through documents, photographs and period archives, the exhibition traces the site’s evolution and invites you to explore close to 80 years of aviation history and passion.
Conditions de participation : Free | No reservation required
Hours: Saturday, September 19, 2026 – 10:00 to 18:00 | Sunday, September 20, 2026 – 10:00 to 18:00
Exhibition of aircraft from yesterday to today
Aeronautical Exhibition: From Sky Legends to Today’s Aircraft
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### On the platform of Chavenay-Villepreux Airfield, come and discover an exceptional collection of aircraft, including some true “dinosaurs” of aviation from the mid-20th century... and still flight‑worthy!
Marvel at machines steeped in history and chat with their owners as well as fellow enthusiasts who will share anecdotes, career paths, and restoration secrets.
After this journey into the past, continue your exploration with more modern aircraft to trace the evolution of aviation up to today.
A marked route will help you move easily around the planes, while an information panel beside each aircraft will help you identify them and learn more about their characteristics.
Participation terms: Free | No reservation required
Hours: Saturday, September 19, 2026 — 10:00–18:00 | Sunday, September 20, 2026 — 10:00–18:00
Flight Simulator: Air Traffic Controller
Discover the profession of air traffic controller with an immersive flight simulator
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### Step into the captivating world of air traffic control and embark on a unique hands-on experience piloting a professional simulator.
This event invites you to peek behind the scenes of air travel, explore the crucial role of air traffic controllers, and confront the daily challenges of this high-stakes field.
On the agenda :
* Overview of the air traffic controller profession
Q&A with industry professionals
Insights into training paths and career opportunities
* Hands-on simulator session to get you started with traffic management
Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, a student, contemplating a career change, or simply curious, come meet experts in the field and test your reflexes in near-real conditions.
A captivating immersion into how thousands of flights are guided safely every day.
Participation terms: Limited to 5 people at a time - Free | No reservation required
Hours: Saturday, September 19, 2026 — 10:00–17:00 | Sunday, September 20, 2026 — 10:00–15:00
Flight simulator: airline pilot
Discover the Pilot Profession with an Immersive Flight Simulator
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### Step into the cockpit and experience life as a real airline pilot with a realistic flight simulator.
This event invites you to explore the world of aviation, the missions of pilots, and the paths that lead to this exciting career.
On the agenda :
* Overview of the airline pilot profession
* Meet pilots and other aviation professionals
* Explore training options and career opportunities in aviation
Hands-on flight simulator experience
Simulation session: takeoff, navigation, and landing
Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, a student, a future applicant, or simply curious, come chat with industry players and test your skills at the controls of an immersive simulator.
A unique experience to feel the rush of piloting and to explore the many opportunities the aviation world has to offer.
Participation conditions: Limited to 3 people at a time - Free | No reservation required
Hours: Saturday, September 19, 2026 – 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Sunday, September 20, 2026 – 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
This page may contain AI-assisted elements, more information here.
Dates and Opening Time
From September 19, 2026 to September 20, 2026
Location
Chavenay-Villepreux Aerodrome
aérodrome de chavenay-villepreux
78450 Chavenay
Route planner
Prices
Free
Official website
journeesdupatrimoine.culture.gouv.fr
