Aetheris Avidi 'Eager for the Air'
Air Transport Auxiliary Association
ABOUT US
The ATA Association (ATAA) is the official organisation that continues to recognise and celebrate the achievements of all the 1,246 Air Transport Auxiliary personnel during the Second World War. These men and women ferried all types of aircraft to supply the RAF and the Royal Navy, wherever was needed, throughout the UK, flying everything from Tiger Moths to Spitfires, Lancasters and Hurricanes without radio or instruments.
The ATA was arguably the world’s first equal opportunity organisation employing men and women (some with significant disabilities) to complete the operational tasks it was set during the war. Equal pay was later extended to the 164 women pilots, who came from more than 25 countries, due to the influence of their Commandant, Pauline Gower.
The Association now serves all supporters and family members who wish to retain the memory and promote the incredible efforts of these brave and dedicated personnel.
We actively welcome new members - please email us to join the ATA Association below and help keep their stories alive for future generations.
THE ORGANISATION
The Air Transport Auxiliary (ATA) was a small yet hugely significant organisation: there were 1,246 aircrew, including 168 women (four flight engineers), who were recruited from more than 25 countries.
Men and women came from near and far to 'do their bit' for the ATA, ferrying everything from Tiger Moths to Sunderland Flying Boats, including Hurricanes, Mosquitos, Wellingtons and, of course, the iconic Spitfire.
ATA pilots flew without navigation instruments or radios, and were at the mercy of the ever changeable British weather. Overall, 173 lost their lives, including 17 women.
THE ASSOCIATION
The ATA Association was set up after the Second World War to maintain valuable connections between the men and women who had served in the ATA.
Membership is now open to all supporters and family members, and those with an active interest or continued involvement in the ATA. The Association helps to preserve an archive of original material, and organises ATA-related events, meetings and talks for members.
Join the Association today.
ATA DURING WORLD WAR II
415,000+
HOURS FLOWN
164
WOMEN PILOTS
309,000+
AIRCRAFT DELIVERED
147
AIRCRAFT TYPES