Key Facts
Current Title: |
Aviation Populaire |
English Title: |
Popular Aviation |
Abbreviation: |
AP |
First Established: |
1936 |
ICAO Code: |
(None) |
Country: |
France |
Status: |
Disbanded |
History
Narrative Summary
The Aviation Populaire was a French government scheme to popularise private flying. The idea was proposed by the Ministre de l’Air (Air Minister) in June 1936 and offically established in July 1936. Hundreds of light aircraft were purchased by the French government and supplied to newly established Sections d’Aviation Populaire (SAP) around the country. A considerable number of gliders was also provided. The SAPs provided low cost access to flying to men who would otherwise been unable to afford it. The scheme was slow to get going but eventually trained over 3500 new pilots and a similar number of mechanics. Increasing political tensions in Europe meant that in April 1939 the mission of the Aviation Populaire was modified to that of ‘pre-military’ training under Air Force direction. There was an increased emphasis on specialist skill training for navigators, gunners, mechanics and radio electricians. In March 1940 the SAPs were disbanded and their aircraft impressed into Air Force service. The large pool of trained personnel were poorly used by Air Force.
Key Dates
16 June 1936 | Aviation Populaire announced. | |
31 July 1936 | Aviation Populaire established. | |
1 April 1939 | Aviation Populaire placed under Air Force control. | |
March 1940 | Aviation Populaire disbanded and aircraft impressed into AdlA service. |
Current Status
The Aviation Populaire was disbanded in 1940.
Future Plans
No plan known.
Markings
Special Markings
Aviation Populaire aircraft wore the standard colour scheme of the individual manufacturer. They do not appear to have carried any Aviation Populaire logo or titles.
Aircraft Serial Numbers
Aviation Populaire aircraft carried standard French civil aircraft registrations, e.g. Salmson D6 F-APST.
Unit/Base Codes
Coding system not used
Aircraft
Aircraft Designations
None – Manufacturers designations used
Current Aircraft Inventory
Not applicable.
All-Time Aircraft Used List
All-Time Table of Aircraft Used
Aircraft NOT Used
No false reports known.
Organisation
Main Headquarters
Aviation Populaire, Ministère de l’Air, Boulevard Victor, Paris.
Organisational Structure
Aviation Populaire aircraft were operated by numerous local Section d’Aviation Populaire (SAP), which were usually attached to the local flyining club.
Current Unit Assignments
Not applicable
Historical Unit Assignments
To be added.
All-Time Flying Units List
To be added.
Air Bases
Current Air Bases
Not applicable.
All-Time Air Bases Used List
See unit assignments.
More Information
Books
Aviation Populaire ou aviation prolétaire 1936 by Vital Ferry
Magazines
No feature articles known.
Websites
L’Aviation Populaire des années 30 en France
Civil Aircraft Register – France