Aérostèles

Aérostèles is a dedicated initiative that curates and preserves the memory of aviation history through a comprehensive collection of stèles, monuments, and commemorative plaques honoring aviators, pilots, and crews. Established in November 2006, Aérostèles serves as a vital resource for enthusiasts and researchers alike, providing an extensive database of over 3,700 memorial sites, 4,000 entries, and nearly 18,000 photographs documenting tragic events involving aircraft, helicopters, gliders, and balloons.

This project builds upon prior research, notably Marc Bonas's "Monumenta aeronautica" and Marcel Catillon's "Qui était qui?", contributing to the ongoing exploration of aviation heritage. Funded entirely through personal means and sustained by a community of volunteers, Aérostèles aims for continuous growth and accuracy. Visitors can access various tools, including OpenStreetMaps for site navigation, while recent developments focus on enhancing photo rights management. Aérostèles remains committed to creating an exhaustive illustrated inventory, reflecting the importance of remembering those who have contributed to the field of aviation.