What Is Aerophilately?
Aerophilately is the fascinating field of study that focuses on the unique world of airmail. It delves into the development of mail transport by air, exploring the history and evolution of airmail service. Aerophilatelists, the enthusiasts of this field, have dedicated their time and passion to meticulously examining and documenting various aspects of airmail, including postage stamps, labels, postal documents, postal markings, rates and routes, and even mail recovered from aircraft accidents.
Aerophilately goes beyond just the study of airmail on fixed-wing aircraft. It also covers sub-specialties such as balloon mail, dirigible mail, zeppelin mail, missile mail, rocket mail, and even astrophilately—the study of mail in space. These enthusiasts form a global community, with the International Federation of Aerophilatelic Societies (FISA) serving as the umbrella organization supporting various specialized organizations worldwide.
Key Takeaways:
- Aerophilately is the study of airmail and the development of mail transport by air.
- It encompasses various aspects of airmail service, including postage stamps, labels, documents, markings, rates, routes, and recovered mail.
- Aerophilately also includes sub-specialties such as balloon mail, dirigible mail, zeppelin mail, missile mail, rocket mail, and astrophilately.
- International Federation of Aerophilatelic Societies (FISA) supports and coordinates aerophilatelic organizations worldwide.
- Aerophilatelists form a passionate community, sharing their knowledge, exhibiting their collections, and publishing specialized publications.
Scope of Aerophilately
The scope of aerophilately is vast and encompasses the study of various postal objects and ephemera related to airmail. Aerophilatelists delve into the intricacies of airmail postage stamps, examining both official and unofficial issues. They scrutinize the unique labels and etiquettes specifically designed for airmail, which play a crucial role in distinguishing these special postal items.
Postal documents that have been transmitted by air, such as airway bills and flight manifests, are also of great interest to aerophilatelists. These documents provide valuable insights into the logistics and processes involved in the transportation of airmail. Additionally, aerophilatelists meticulously study and document various postal markings related to air transport, including cancellations and postmarks, which serve as important historical artifacts.
One of the key areas of focus in aerophilately is the exploration of special flights, such as first flights and other “special” flights. These flights hold both historical and collectible significance, and aerophilatelists eagerly research and collect related postal items.
Aerophilatelists also delve into the field of crash covers – mail that has been recovered from aircraft accidents and other incidents. These covers provide a poignant glimpse into the challenges and risks associated with early aviation and hold a unique place in aerophilatelic collections.
Beyond fixed-wing aircraft, aerophilately encompasses fascinating sub-specialties such as balloon mail, dirigible mail, zeppelin mail, missile mail, and rocket mail. These areas of study offer valuable insights into the evolution of aviation technology and the innovative methods employed in the transportation of mail.
Furthermore, aerophilatelists venture into astrophilately, which involves the study of mail that has been sent to space and returned. This captivating field explores the intersection of philately and space exploration, offering collectors a unique glimpse into mankind’s aspirations beyond Earth.
Organizations in Aerophilately
When it comes to aerophilately, the International Federation of Aerophilatelic Societies (FISA) plays a crucial role as the umbrella organization for aerophilatelic societies worldwide. FISA provides invaluable support and coordination for these organizations, which are made up of passionate and dedicated aerophilatelists. These organizations contribute significantly to the study and documentation of airmail through their specialized publications.
Another prominent organization in the world of aerophilately is the Federation Internationale de Philatelie (FIP), which houses a dedicated commission for aerophilately. The FIP supports and promotes the development of aerophilatelic collections and exhibits, ensuring that this niche field receives the attention it deserves.
These organizations offer collectors a wealth of opportunities to engage with fellow enthusiasts, exhibit their collections, and share their knowledge and discoveries. Whether through physical gatherings or online platforms, aerophilatelists can connect with like-minded individuals and foster a sense of camaraderie within their community.
Aerophilatelic Organizations
Below are some of the prominent aerophilatelic organizations that collectors can explore:
- American Air Mail Society (AAMS)
- Aerophilatelic Federation of India (AFI)
- British Aerophilatelic Federation (BAeF)
- Union des Aérophilatélistes Association (UAA)
- Samoa Philatelic Bureau
These organizations, along with many others worldwide, provide collectors with a platform to delve deeper into their passion for airmail and connect with fellow enthusiasts on a global scale. Their publications, events, and online resources further enrich the aerophilatelic community, ensuring the continuous growth and development of this fascinating field.
Aerophilatelic Publication Examples
Here are some notable publications that aerophilatelists can explore to expand their knowledge:
| Publication | Publisher |
|---|---|
| Aerophilatelic News | American Air Mail Society (AAMS) |
| Indian Aerophilately Digest | Aerophilatelic Federation of India (AFI) |
| Wings | British Aerophilatelic Federation (BAeF) |
| Aéro-Philatélie | Union des Aérophilatélistes Association (UAA) |
| Samoa Philatelic Journal | Samoa Philatelic Bureau |
These publications are a valuable resource for aerophilatelists, offering in-depth articles, research, and technical information on airmail and its related aspects. By exploring these publications, collectors can enhance their understanding of the field and discover new insights.
Collecting Areas in Aerophilately
The world of aerophilately offers collectors a wide range of collecting areas to explore. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, there’s something for everyone in this fascinating hobby. From the development of airmail within specific countries or geographical areas, to exploring special routes and postal connections, the possibilities are endless. Here are some popular collecting areas in aerophilately:
- Airmail Collecting: Focus on the history and development of airmail within a specific country or region.
- Commercial Airmail: Explore covers and material related to airmail sent by commercial airlines.
- First Flight Covers: Collect covers flown on the inaugural flights of new airmail routes.
- Airmail Stamps: Study and collect airmail stamps, labels, vignettes, and other related philatelic material.
- Postal Stationery: Collect envelopes, postcards, and other stationery specifically designed for airmail.
- Crash Mail: Focus on covers recovered from aircraft accidents or incidents.
- Military Airmail: Explore covers and material related to airmail sent by the military.
- Event Covers: Collect covers marking specific events or milestones in airmail history.
Whether you’re interested in specific aircraft types, airlines, or historical events, aerophilately offers a diverse range of collecting areas to suit any collector’s interests. Each area provides a unique perspective on the rich history and significance of airmail.
Take a closer look at some of these collecting areas:
Airmail Stamps
“Airmail stamps are not only miniature works of art, but they also provide a fascinating glimpse into the history of airmail. From the earliest airmail stamps to modern issues, these stamps tell the story of how airmail has evolved over the years. Collectors can explore the different designs, denominations, and commemorative issues related to airmail, creating a comprehensive collection that reflects the diverse aspects of this mode of communication.”
| Year | Country | Stamp Design | Denomination |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1928 | United States | Famous Pilots | $0.10 |
| 1933 | Germany | Hindenburg Airship | 50pf |
| 1948 | Canada | Trans-Canada Air Lines | 7c |
Table: Examples of Airmail Stamps
As shown in the table above, airmail stamps from different countries and time periods feature a variety of designs and themes. Collecting airmail stamps allows philatelists to appreciate the intricate artwork and the historical significance of each stamp.
Whether you’re a stamp enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about airmail, exploring these collecting areas can provide an exciting and rewarding experience. Start your aerophilately journey today and uncover the hidden stories behind these fascinating pieces of history.
Exhibiting in Aerophilately
Aerophilately enthusiasts have the opportunity to showcase their collections through exhibitions. These stamp exhibitions provide a platform for collectors to share their passion and knowledge with fellow enthusiasts from around the world. Participating in such events not only allows collectors to display their aerophilatelic exhibits but also enables them to gain valuable experience and connect with like-minded individuals.
The FIP Commission for Aerophilately, under the International Federation of Aerophilatelic Societies (FISA), has established rules and regulations specifically for the evaluation of aerophilatelic exhibits at stamp exhibitions. These guidelines ensure that the exhibits primarily consist of postal objects that have been flown, preserving the true essence of aerophilately. However, exceptions to this rule allow for the exhibition of early airmail flown by carriers other than postal authorities, enabling collectors to showcase historically significant pieces.
The rules also encompass the exhibition of airmail stamps, labels, vignettes, postal stationery, revenues, and various forms of correspondence carried by air. Exhibitors are encouraged to demonstrate the usage of these materials on airmail items whenever possible, adding depth and context to their exhibits.
Participating in stamp exhibitions at local, regional, national, and international levels provides collectors with a platform to display their favorite aerophilatelic material and engage with a wider audience. These events foster a sense of community, allowing collectors to share their enthusiasm for aerophilately and exchange valuable insights and knowledge with fellow collectors.
Below is an example of an aerophilatelic exhibit judging guideline:
| Category | Guidelines |
|---|---|
| Airmail Stamps | Evaluation of the quality, rarity, and significance of airmail postage stamps |
| Postal Objects | Evaluation of the relevance, significance, and condition of postal stationery, labels, vignettes, and revenues |
| Correspondence | Evaluation of the usage and relevance of correspondence carried by air |
| Display and Presentation | Evaluation of the visual appeal, organization, and clarity of the exhibit |
To prepare for an aerophilatelic exhibit, collectors should review the specific rules and regulations set by the governing body or organization organizing the stamp exhibition. These guidelines will provide detailed instructions on the format, presentation, and other requirements for the exhibit.
Exhibiting in aerophilately not only allows collectors to showcase their collections but also offers a platform to gain recognition, receive feedback, and contribute to the continued growth and appreciation of this fascinating field.
Sources of Information and Material in Aerophilately
Collectors in aerophilately have a multitude of sources to explore, providing a wealth of information and material. These include:
- Aerophilatelic publications: Numerous articles, catalogs, and handbooks about airmail have been published, offering valuable insights and historical context. These publications can be purchased from stamp dealers or publishers, allowing collectors to expand their knowledge and enhance their collections.
- Stamp dealers: Stamp dealers play a crucial role in the aerophilately community, offering a wide range of covers, stamps, and other related material. They have extensive stocks at stamp exhibitions and fairs, providing collectors with ample opportunities to find unique items for their collections. Moreover, established dealers also offer mail orders, ensuring accessibility for collectors worldwide.
- Philatelic auctions: Club and public philatelic auctions are excellent venues for collectors to acquire rare and unique aerophilatelic items. These auctions often feature specialized sections dedicated to airmail, allowing collectors to find hidden gems and add valuable pieces to their collections. Furthermore, exchanges with other collectors can also present opportunities to acquire new material.
- Philatelic press advertisements: The philatelic press is a valuable source for collectors, as it features advertisements highlighting specific items of interest. Collectors can stay informed about upcoming auctions, sales, and other philatelic events through these advertisements, ensuring they don’t miss out on exciting opportunities.
- Airmail societies: Joining an airmail society, such as the American Air Mail Society, can provide collectors with access to a wealth of information and resources. These societies often publish journals and newsletters for their members, featuring articles, research, and collecting advice. Additionally, they serve as platforms for collectors to connect with fellow enthusiasts, share their experiences and discoveries, and seek guidance on various aspects of aerophilately.
- Federation Internationale des Societes Aerophilateiiques (FISA): FISA is the worldwide organization that unites various specialist societies for airmail collectors. It serves as a hub for collaboration and knowledge-sharing among aerophilately enthusiasts globally, ensuring a cohesive and supportive community. Through FISA, collectors can access a vast network of resources, expertise, and guidance, further enhancing their collecting journey.
Sources of Information and Material in Aerophilately
| Source | Description |
|---|---|
| Aerophilatelic publications | Numerous articles, catalogs, and handbooks about airmail |
| Stamp dealers | Wide range of covers, stamps, and related material |
| Philatelic auctions | Club and public auctions, opportunities to acquire rare items |
| Philatelic press advertisements | Announcements of upcoming auctions, sales, and events |
| Airmail societies | Access to knowledge, resources, and collecting advice |
| FISA | Umbrella organization unifying specialist societies worldwide |
Opportunities for Advancement in Aerophilately
Advancement in aerophilately offers collectors a path to showcase their collections at various levels and engage with the stamp collecting community. By exhibiting their material at stamp exhibitions, collectors can gain valuable experience and receive feedback from fellow enthusiasts. Exhibiting at the local or regional level provides a solid starting point for collectors to refine their exhibits and explore their passion for aerophilately.
As collectors become more knowledgeable and skilled in exhibiting, they can aspire to showcase their material at the national level. This achievement signifies proficiency and dedication in the field, opening doors to recognition and further opportunities. Attaining a vermeil medal at a national exhibition is a significant accomplishment that demonstrates a collector’s expertise and commitment to aerophilately.
For those aiming higher, participating in international stamp exhibitions is the ultimate goal. These exhibitions offer a global platform for collectors to display their collections and connect with the international stamp collecting community. Presenting their exhibits at an international level not only brings recognition but also enhances the collector’s understanding of aerophilatelic trends and techniques worldwide.
Advancement in aerophilately is a personal journey, and collectors are encouraged to continually refine their exhibits and expand their knowledge in this specialized field. From local exhibitions to international stages, each exhibition level provides unique opportunities for collectors to share their passion, gain experience, and contribute to the vibrant world of aerophilately.
Benefits of Advancement in Aerophilately:
- Exhibition experience and feedback from fellow collectors.
- Recognition and validation of proficiency through national-level exhibitions.
- Opportunities to showcase collections on a global stage at international exhibitions.
- Engagement with the international stamp collecting community.
- Continual improvement and expansion of knowledge in aerophilately.
Trends and Focus Areas in Aerophilately
Aerophilately is a dynamic field that evolves with changing collecting trends and focus areas. In recent years, there has been a noticeable rise in the interest of collectors towards commercial airmail, fueling the need for extensive research and gathering of covers and materials beyond what catalog descriptions offer. This trend has opened up new avenues for collectors, as commercial airmail often involves combi-mail, which refers to covers that are carried partly as airmail and partly as surface mail, adding complexity and variety to collections.
Another area of increased fascination is the history of more recent periods, specifically World War II airmail connections. Collectors are actively exploring this era and delving deeper into the stories and records of airmail operations during the war. This exploration has resulted in numerous specialized articles and books being published, shedding light on this significant period in aerophilately.
It’s worth noting that collecting trends and focus areas in aerophilately can vary geographically, reflecting the unique interests and preferences of collectors in different regions. While some collectors may be drawn to specific historical events or routes, others may focus on certain types of aircraft or specific airlines. This diversity adds richness and depth to the field of aerophilately, ensuring that there is always something new and exciting for collectors to explore.
Sample Table: Popular Collecting Areas in Aerophilately
| Collecting Area | Description |
|---|---|
| Airmail Stamps | Focusing on the study and collection of postage stamps specifically used for airmail. |
| First Flight Covers | Collecting covers that were carried on the inaugural flights of various airmail routes or new postal connections. |
| Postal Stationery | Exploring the world of airmail-related postal cards, letter sheets, and other stationery items. |
| Crash Mail | Studying and collecting mail recovered from aircraft accidents or other incidents. |
| Military Airmail | Focusing on airmail with connections to military operations or organizations. |
| Event Covers | Collecting covers commemorating specific events or occasions carried by airmail. |
Collecting areas in aerophilately are diverse and cater to the varied interests and preferences of collectors. The table above provides a glimpse into some popular collecting areas within the field, showcasing the breadth and depth of opportunities available to collectors.
The Fascination of Aerophilately
What makes aerophilately truly captivating is the passion it ignites in collectors worldwide. Enthusiastic aerophilatelists share a common love for aviation and appreciate its profound role in enabling global communication. For many collectors, their interest in aerophilately began as children and later rekindled as they sought new challenges and expanded their knowledge in this unique field.
Aerophilately offers collectors an incredible opportunity to connect with fellow enthusiasts who share their enthusiasm. Whether through stamp exhibitions, local meetups, or online communities, collectors can meet like-minded individuals from all corners of the globe. These interactions foster a sense of camaraderie and provide a platform for sharing experiences, discoveries, and expertise.
The advent of the internet has revolutionized the way aerophilatelists connect and engage with one another. Online communities and forums provide a convenient space for collectors to exchange ideas, ask questions, and showcase their collections. Through these virtual platforms, collectors can share their passion with others who understand and appreciate the intricate world of aerophilately.
Aerophilately goes beyond the mere act of collecting stamps and covers. It is an exploration of the rich history, technological advancements, and human stories behind airmail. Collectors of all backgrounds find themselves captivated by the fascinating journey that unfolds as they delve into the world of aerophilately. It’s not just a hobby; it’s a gateway to discover a passion for worldwide communication and a means to connect with others who share the same enthusiasm.
