The Antwerp flying club

The new airport quickly attracted new activities: in October 1923, Jean Stampe founded the flight school - “Ecole Aviation Anvers” with his war partner Maurice Vertongen.

In November 1927, under the impulse of Jan Olieslagers and Jean Stampe, the flying club Antwerp Aviation Club was founded, a flying club based on the English model.

The Antwerp Aviation Club, founded in November 1927, set itself the goal of purchasing aircraft and then making them available to its members. Among the first members we find a number of well-known Antwerp figures: Jan Olieslagers, Jean Stampe, Maurice Vertongen, Charles Ciselet, Pierre Schellekens, Mulders, Feyen, Verellen, Nagant, Count de Looz-Coswaren, Leysen,... The first chairman was of course Jan Olieslagers. Schellekens became secretary and would remain active until well after WWII.

In 1928 a first meeting was organised by the Aero-Club of Antwerp.

Chairman Van Migem had meanwhile complained in Brussels about the neglect of the airport and the lack of comfort and service buildings. Minister Anseele announced that the airfield would be given airport status and on April 23, 1928, Sabena opened a connection between Antwerp and Evere. Other connections would be added later. In his opening speech, Mr. Renard, director of Sabena, stated: “We understand that a port like Antwerp should be just as well equipped as its competitors.”

It seems to have been forgotten by now....