$4 million pledge for SA historical plane

A historic aircraft in South Australia will receive a $4 million investment for preservation, under a re-elected coalition government.

Tourism minister Simon Birmingham said the funding would ensure the Vickers Vimy be safely transferred to a prime location at the new Adelaide airport terminal.

"This is a celebration of Australia's history," Mr Birmingham said.

"It will be great for tourism to South Australia as well as ensure future generations of SA learn about this piece of history."

Federal and state governments will each invest $2 million.

The Vickers Vimy was the first aircraft to fly between Australia and England almost 100 years ago.

South Australian brothers Sir Ross and Sir Keith Smith made history when they made the flight in less than 30 days.

This year marks the centenary of the 1919 Air Race.

The aircraft is currently located on the Adelaide Airport sight in the long-term car park, about 700m away from terminal access.

The moving process is expected to commence in 2021.

The plane will need to be dismantled then reconstructed in its new home.

Adelaide Airport announced a $165 million terminal expansion in June last year.