In the Beginning
RQAC first known as the Australian Aero Club – Queensland Section, was formed in June 1910 and is one of the older Aero Clubs in the World.
Following World War I in 1919 the Australian Aero Club – Queensland Section commenced flying training.
In 1920 the Australian Aero Club – Queensland Section was renamed to the Queensland Aero Club and this continued until 1935 when Royal Charter was granted and the title became “Royal Queensland Aero Club”.
Golden Age of Aviation
The Patron of the Royal Queensland Aero Club is the duly appointed Governor of Queensland. The Club has always catered to the flying aspirations of men and women alike, one of the more prominent lady members being Mrs Lores Bonney in the early 1940s.
| 1920 | QAC was granted a licence by the government to carry passenger and engage in aerial work. (Preceding Qantas by some months!). The first suitable training aircraft were imported by QANTAS who set up flying schools at Longreach and Eagle Farm, Brisbane. The latter centre operated by Chief Flying Instructor Captain Lester Brain who was also a well known member of QAC. |
| 1928 | Aerodrome site Hanger 2, at Archerfield was purchased for flight training operations. |
| 1929 | QAC commenced flight training in Queensland under contract with Qantas. |
| 1931 | Eagle Farm airport closed and facilities transferred to Archerfield Airport Hanger 1. |
| 1935 | Royal Charter was granted resulting in the title Royal Queensland Aero Club |
World War II
| 1940 | Hangars, aircraft, and instructors seconded by RAAF No. 2 Empire Flight Training School, Archerfield Civil Flying ceased due to WWII |
Post War
| 1945 | RQAC resumed operations out of Hangar One with administration located in the terminal building. |
| 1964 | Construction of premises were commenced, (currently housing reception, operations, and the Airline Academy of Australia). |
| 1966 | Current clubhouse officially opened |
| 1984 | Hangar one purchased from the Commonwealth |
| 1994 | Awarded the Sword of Honour by the Guild of Air Pilots and Navigators |
| 1998 | ATAE – Engineering Training School developed |
| 1995 | Airline Academy of Australia commenced |
| 2010 | RQAC flying operations return to Hangar One RQAC Club Lounge opened |
