This Sunday Classic Flyers NZ and Legacy Trust will celebrate the launch of its Legacy Jet Centre and the arrival of the museum's RNZAF Aermacchi with a special launch event.

Classic Flyers CEO Andrew Gormlie says the launch offers a chance to get up close to the jet which was retired with all 18 of the RNZAF's Aermacchi 339s in 2001, and recognise Legacy Trust's support in sponsoring the jet's $10,000 cost.

Legacy director Mike Savage and Classic Flyers CEO Andrew Gormlie with the Aermacchi.

Andrew welcomed Legacy's support, saying he is excited about the Classic Flyers partnership with the trust and says it is fitting to recognise the support by renaming the aviation museum's main hangar after the trust.

On Sunday from 2pm the Legacy Jet Centre will be formally launched with a talk by Legacy trustee Bill Holland, reminiscences by former aircrew, visits by other classic jets weather permitting and a chance to see the Aermacchi that is still in parts.

Legacy director Mike Savage says it is 'thrilled” to be a part of the Aermacchi project and to help continue the aviation museum's legacy, describing Classic Flyers as a major asset for the city.

Classic Flyers management board chairman David Love says it was great to have Legacy's support after extensive public fundraising to cover the cost of the Skyhawk purchase.

David says it is a fitting partnership with both Classic Flyers and Legacy committed to preserving Tauranga's living history.