What is FASTA
FASTA is the Association of Members that supports the activities of the trust (FAST) primarily through a paid up membership scheme. The members come from a range of aviation enthusiasts both nationally and internationally with a wide range of ages and interests. Existing members include many ex-scientists, engineers and specialists from the aerospace industry and academia. Others have a direct connection with Farnborough through family, live locally or are just simply interested in a fascinating story that started with Samuel F Cody's historic first flight in 1908. Indeed anybody interested in the development of aviation technology in the UK over the years would find membership of benefit.
Activities and Benefits of FASTA Membership
Just being a 'paid up' member supports the work of the trust and members benefit from regular newsletters, social events and lectures on subjects connected with Farnborough and its aviation history. Members also have the opportunity to volunteer their time whose work is crucial to the ongoing maintenance and development of the museum and its artefacts. There are a wide range of interesting tasks ranging from ongoing research into the history at Farnborough, the conservation/restoration of historic aviation artefacts to the maintenance of the grounds and aircraft exhibits or simply being a guide for the public visiting the museum.
Management of FASTA
An annually elected committee represent the membership who meet regularly to maintain membership records, produce newsletters and provide fundraising support to the trust. FASTA works with the trustees of FAST to provide support for its various projects. There is also a monthly "Heritage meeting" (open to all members) chaired by the museum manager to discuss operational matters concerning the upkeep of the museum the historic collection and grounds. There is also a full meeting Annual General Meeting (AGM) for all members once a year.