The Amy Johnson Statue

This life-size bronze statue of Amy Johnson was commissioned by the Amy Johnson Project to mark the 75th anniversary of her tragic and untimely death on 5 January 1941. The bronze, which is sited on the promenade in Herne Bay, was unveiled by HRH Prince Michael of Kent and modern-day aviatrix, Tracey Curtis-Taylor, on Saturday 17 September 2016.

Amy Johnson was just 37 years old when she died and the tragedy was made more poignant by the mysterious circumstances surrounding the crash and dramatic rescue attempt that failed to save her and also claimed the life of the captain of the vessel that came to her aid. The RAF Accident Record Card names Herne Bay as the location where Amy Johnson’s final flight came to an end. Her body and the wreckage of the plane were never found.

The statue stands as a monument to women, aviation, engineering and all those who served with the Air Transport Auxiliary during the Second World War and will be a permanent landmark to inspire and educate.

Dressed in the early 1930s flying clothes, striding forward, adjusting her goggles and looking to the skies, the bronze includes quotes by Amy who expressed herself with intelligent creativity. Standing at ground level on the promenade, she will merge with the crowd during the day but on an evening, when the seafront is deserted, you will see the silhouette of the lone girl flyer, making for a moving and poignant scene.