The Flugplatzmuseum Cottbus (Cottbus Airfield Museum) is an aviation museum located at the Cottbus Airfield in Brandenburg, Germany. It is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of aviation in the region, with a special emphasis on the historical significance of Cottbus as an important site for aviation, both in terms of military and civilian history.

Flugplatzmuseum Cottbus

Fichtestraße 1

03046 Cottbus

Germany

www.flugplatzmuseumcottbus.de

info@flugplatzmuseumcottbus.de

+49 355 32004

March – October

• Tuesday – Friday 10:00 – 16:00
• Saturday – Sunday  10:00 – 17:00

November – February

• Tuesday – Saturday 10:00 – 16:00

Admission fee

Gift shop

Aircraft collection

801 9826 996 71+01 72+77 BB+237 JA+111 205 32+15 4 370 D-GWLB 21+56 25+12 EB+399 DM-3267 20+62 22 1015 215 653 821 848 981 584 696 584 104 502 537 437 02 380 401/D-HZPM 538 785 93+60 482 98+32 – 92+13 DD+313 76+22 365 137 CCCP-65745 98

Antonov An-2T Antonov An-2T Antonov An-14A Bell UH-1D Iroquois Bell UH-1D Iroquois Canadair CL-13A Sabre 5 Canadair CL-13B Sabre 6 Ilyushin Il-28 Fiat G91R/3 Focke Wulf Fw190F-3 Let L-29 Dolphin Let L-200A Morova Lockheed F-104G Starfighter Lockheed F-104G Starfighter Lockheed T-33A Lommatzsch FES-530/II Lehrmeister II Mikoyan Gurevich MiG-23UB Mikoyan Gurevich MiG-17 Mikoyan Gurevich MiG-21F-13 Mikoyan Gurevich MiG-21US Mikoyan Gurevich MiG-21MF Mikoyan Gurevich MiG-21PFM Mikoyan Gurevich MiG-21bis Mikoyan Gurevich MiG-21SPS-K Mikoyan Gurevich MiG-21MF Mikoyan Gurevich MiG-23BN Mikoyan Gurevich MiG-23MF Mikoyan Gurevich MiG-23UB Mielec  Lim-5 Mielec  Lim-5 Mielec  Lim-5P (rear) Mil Mi-2 Mil Mi-2 Mil Mi-2 Mil Mi-4A Mil Mi-4A Mil Mi-8TB Mi-9 Mil Mi-24D Mil SM-1/300 Piaggio FWP149D Republic F-84F Thunderstreak Sud Aviation SE3130 Alouette 2 Sukhoi Su-22M-4 Sukhoi Su-22UM-3K Tupolev Tu-134A Yakolev Yak-11

Flugplatzmuseum Cottbus exhibition also includes a collection of ground service equipment, drop weapons and motor vehicles. The accompanying historical exhibition, which includes exhibits such as equipment, aircraft models and aircraft armament, provides information about the history of aviation in the region. In the restoration area, aircraft exposed to the weather are maintained and repaired.

Key Features of the Flugplatzmuseum Cottbus:

1. Historical Significance of Cottbus Airfield:
   • Cottbus Airfield has a long history in aviation, dating back to its use in the early 20th century. The airfield was an important site during both World War II and the Cold War, serving as a base for various military aircraft.
   • After the war, the airfield continued to play a role in military aviation, particularly during the East German (GDR) era, when it was used by the Soviet Air Force and later by the East German Air Force.
   • The Flugplatzmuseum Cottbus highlights the historical role of this airfield in the context of military aviation and its significance in Cold War-era aviation.
2. Aviation Exhibits:
   • The Flugplatzmuseum Cottbus‘s collection includes a range of military and civilian aircraft, with a focus on those that were associated with Cottbus Airfield or the surrounding region.
   • One of the museum’s key features is its display of aircraft used by the Soviet Air Force and the East German Air Force during the Cold War, as well as other historical aircraft.
   • Aircraft on display include various models of fighter jets, trainer planes, and transport aircraft that reflect the aviation history of both the Soviet Union and East Germany.
3. Cold War Focus:
   • The museum places a strong emphasis on the Cold War period, especially in the context of Soviet military presence in East Germany. Exhibits showcase the various aircraft and military equipment used by the Warsaw Pact forces, as well as the relationship between East and West during the division of Germany.
   • The Flugplatzmuseum Cottbus’s collection includes iconic Cold War-era aircraft such as MiG fighters, L-39 Albatros, and other Soviet and East German planes, providing insight into the technological and military advancements of the time.
4. Aircraft Preservation and Restoration:
   • A significant part of the museum’s work involves the preservation and restoration of historical aircraft. Many of the planes on display have been carefully restored to showcase their original condition, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of their design and history.
   • The museum is also involved in the maintenance and conservation of aircraft, which helps to ensure the longevity and accuracy of its exhibits.
5. Interactive Exhibits and Learning:
   • The Flugplatzmuseum Cottbus offers a range of interactive exhibits that help visitors learn about the principles of aviation, aircraft design, and the history of flight.
   • Educational programs and guided tours are available, providing visitors with a more in-depth understanding of the aircraft on display and the history of Cottbus Airfield.
6. Military and Civilian Aircraft:
   • The Flugplatzmuseum Cottbus displays both military aircraft (such as MiG-21, MiG-23, and Sukhoi Su-22) and civilian aircraft, reflecting the diversity of aviation history.
   • Visitors can explore the development of both military combat aircraft and civil aviation and understand how they have evolved over time in terms of design, function, and technology.
7. Airfield Activities and Events:
   • The Flugplatzmuseum Cottbus is not only a static display but also an active location for aviation events. It often hosts open days, aviation festivals, and flight demonstrations that allow visitors to experience flying activities and see aircraft in action.
   • The museum is located at the Cottbus Airfield, which is still used for general aviation, so visitors may have the opportunity to watch aircraft take off and land, adding to the immersive experience.
8. Location and Access:
   • The museum is located at the Cottbus Airfield, about 10 kilometers south of Cottbus in Brandenburg. It is easily accessible by car and offers parking at the museum site.
   • Visitors can also explore the surrounding region of Brandenburg, which is known for its rich history and scenic landscapes.

Summary:

The Flugplatzmuseum Cottbus offers an engaging and educational experience for those interested in the history of aviation, particularly in the context of the Cold War and East German aviation. The museum’s collection of military and civilian aircraft, its focus on the historical significance of Cottbus Airfield, and its commitment to aircraft preservation make it a unique and valuable resource for aviation enthusiasts. Whether you’re interested in military aviation history, the role of Soviet and East German forces in aviation, or the technological evolution of aircraft, the Flugplatzmuseum Cottbus provides a fascinating look into the history of flight and its impact on the region.