The Aeronauticum in Nordholz, Germany, is a specialized aviation museum dedicated to the history of aviation, with a particular focus on naval and maritime aviation. Located in the town of Nordholz, near the North Sea coast, the museum is situated at the former site of the Marinefliegerstützpunkt Nordholz, a naval airbase that played an important role in Germany’s naval aviation history.
Aeronauticum
Deutsche Luftschiff und Marineflieger Museum
Peter-Strasser-Platz 3
27637 Wurster Nordseeküste
+49 4741 18190
March 15 – November 15
- Daily 10:30 – 17:30
November 16 – March 14
- Daily 10:30 – 15:30
Admission fee
Gift shop
Aircraft collection
| 623183/GA+DX
71+07 61+14 61+21 WE+543 59+22 59+19 UA+113 91+02 SC+601 RB+363 VB+134 20+64 22+98 94+01 94+14 43+55 43+87 45+30 45+55 54+08 366 D-AXDB | Arado Ar.196A-5
Bell UH-1D Iroquois Brequet Br1150 Atlantic Brequet Br1150 Atlantic (forward fuselage) Bristol 171 Sycamore Mk.52 Dornier Do28D-2 Dornier Do28D-2/OU Fairey Gannet AS.4 Focke Wulf FWP149D Fouga CM170 Magister Hawker Sea Hawk Mk.101 Hawker Sea Hawk Mk.100 Lockheed F-104G Starfighter (cockpit) Lockheed F-104G Starfighter Mil Mi-8S Mil Mi-8T Panavia Tornado IDS Panavia Tornado IDS (tail) Panavia Tornado IDS Panavia Tornado IDS Percival Pembroke C.54 Sukhoi Su-22M-4 VFW Fokker VFW614 |
Highlights of the Aeronauticum Museum:
1. Maritime Aviation History:
- The museum emphasizes the development of naval aviation, showcasing the role of aircraft in maritime operations, reconnaissance, and search-and-rescue missions.
- Exhibits trace the evolution of aircraft used by the German Navy (Marineflieger), from early seaplanes to modern maritime patrol aircraft.
2. Aircraft Displays:
- The Aeronauticum houses a wide range of aircraft, particularly those used by the German Navy. Key exhibits include:
- Sea-planes and Flying Boats: Early examples of aircraft designed for naval use, including the Arado Ar 196, a German seaplane used during World War II.
- Maritime Patrol Aircraft: Models like the Lockheed P-3 Orion, a long-range anti-submarine and maritime surveillance aircraft used by the German Navy after the Cold War.
- Helicopters: Several helicopters that have been used in naval and search-and-rescue missions, such as the Westland Sea King.
3. World War II and Cold War Aircraft:
- The Aeronauticum showcases aircraft from both World War II and the Cold War periods, reflecting the strategic importance of naval aviation during these critical times.
- Exhibits include historical aircraft used for reconnaissance, anti-submarine warfare, and air-sea rescue missions.
4. Naval Aviation Technology:
- The museum features numerous exhibits that explain the technology behind naval aviation, from early aviation engines to modern radar and avionics systems.
- Interactive displays demonstrate how naval aviation plays a crucial role in maritime defense, including the use of aircraft for surveillance, defense, and rescue operations.
5. Aviation Memorabilia and Artifacts:
- The Aeronauticum also includes artifacts such as uniforms, tools, pilot gear, and personal items from the history of German naval aviation.
- Historic photographs and documents help tell the story of the pilots and crews who served at the Nordholz airbase.
6. Exhibits on the Marinefliegerstützpunkt Nordholz:
- The Aeronauticum is located at the site of the former naval airbase, and part of the museum’s focus is on the base’s history.
- Aeronauticum offers insight into how the airbase functioned as a hub for German naval aviation, especially during the Cold War.
7. Special Events and Educational Programs:
- The Aeronauticum regularly hosts special events, such as air shows, aviation-related lectures, and educational programs for school groups and visitors of all ages.
- The museum also participates in aviation heritage days, offering visitors an opportunity to explore historical aircraft up close.
Tips for Visitors:
- Aviation Enthusiasts: The museum is a must-visit for aviation buffs, particularly those interested in naval aviation and maritime history.
- Guided Tours: Consider booking a guided tour for a deeper understanding of the aircraft on display and the history of naval aviation.
The Aeronauticum in Nordholz provides a fascinating look at the history of naval aviation, offering both history and technical insights through its impressive collection of aircraft, exhibits, and historical artifacts. It’s an excellent destination for anyone interested in aviation, maritime history, and the role of aircraft in modern defense and maritime operations.
In the 2050 m² indoor area, the historical and technical development of airship and naval aviation is shown by means of examples, small exhibits and replicas.
The exhibition shows information on zeppelins in military and civilian use and documentation on the fate of the crews. The life of Zeppelin commander Hans Flemming is presented.
The interior exhibition areas are divided into five sections of the permanent exhibition and the special exhibition area.
- Technology and history of airships
- Airships at war
- Civil Airship Aviation
- Luftschiffplatz Nordholz
- Sea and naval aviation (and outdoor)
Photos Ruud Boots and Rob Vogelaar