The D-Day Wings Museum located at Caen-Carpiquet Airport in Normandy, France, is dedicated to commemorating the pivotal role of air power during the D-Day landings and the liberation of Europe in World War II. It celebrates the aviation history of the region, with a focus on the Allied air operations that were critical to the success of Operation Overlord.
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D-Day Wings Museum
Caen-Carpiquet Airport, Quartier Koenig
Bâtiment n°17, Hall 1
485 Rue Jules Védrines
14760 Bretteville-sur-Odon
+33 6 7242 6052
Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10:00 – 17:00
Admission fee
Aircraft collection
| N36857 41-30188 BR-08 N514AC/43-49297 N2-123 JP843/Y-T – 41-30188 EN398/JE-J) – TA-385 | Aeronca 65-TAC Consolidated B-24D Liberator (cockpit) Dassault Mirage 5BR Douglas C-47B Skytrain* Douglas C-47B Skytrain (cockpit) Hawker Typhoon 1b (composite) Hawker Typhoon 1b (cockpit) North American B-25D Mitchell (cockpit) Supermarine Spitfire IX (replica) Vought F4U Corsair (tail) Vultee BT-13 Valiant |
In Normandy, no museum deals with D-Day aviation (apart from airborne missions), while mastering the air was essential to the successful landing.
The creation of a WWII aircraft restoration workshop will allow you to discover the fascinating work of restorers of collection aircraft.
*Still in the USA.
Key Highlights D-Day Wings Museum:
1. Historical Significance
- Caen-Carpiquet Airport itself played a role during the Normandy Campaign. It was a strategic location heavily contested between Allied and German forces during and after the D-Day landings in June 1944.
- The D-Day Wings Museum leverages this historical setting to tell the story of the air operations that supported ground troops and facilitated the liberation of Normandy.
2. Exhibits
- Aircraft Displays:
Visitors can view aircraft that played a crucial role in the D-Day landings and subsequent operations, such as:- The C-47 Dakota, used for paratrooper drops on the eve of D-Day.
- Fighter planes like the Supermarine Spitfire and P-51 Mustang that provided air cover.
- Bombers and reconnaissance planes.
- Artifacts:
- Uniforms, flight gear, maps, and tools used by Allied pilots and ground crews.
- Personal stories, photographs, and memorabilia that bring the history to life.
- Interactive Displays:
Engaging exhibits that explain the logistics and strategies of airborne missions, including animations and tactical maps.
3. D-Day Wings Museum Special Features
- Recreation of Airfields:
Displays showcasing how temporary airfields were set up in Normandy during the campaign. - Tributes to Aviators:
Exhibits honoring the bravery and sacrifices of Allied aircrews and ground staff.
4. Educational Opportunities
- Guided tours are available to help visitors understand the significance of air operations during D-Day and the broader Normandy campaign.
- Programs for school groups and history enthusiasts are often offered, with a focus on the innovation and strategy of WWII aviation.
5. Visitor Experience
- Located at a functional airport, the D-Day Wings Museum is easily accessible and offers a unique backdrop with the ongoing presence of modern aviation.
- A gift shop often features aviation-themed souvenirs, books, and models.
The D-Day Wings Museum at Caen-Carpiquet Airport is a must-visit for history and aviation enthusiasts exploring Normandy.