Jurmala Airport Air Zoo (Sky Zoo) is a unique aviation museum and attraction located at Tukums Airport in Jurmala, Latvia. It is a relatively recent development in the aviation sector and provides visitors with a chance to experience both aviation history and modern aircraft displays in an engaging and interactive environment.
Jurmala Airport Air Zoo (Sky Zoo)
Tukums Airport, SIA
Smārde parish
Tukums
LV-3129, Lativia
http://jurmalaairport.com/en/for-passengers/ekskursija-lidosta
+371 20202165
Tours Monday – Friday 09:30 – 16:30
Admission fee
EACH VISITOR MUST PRESENT A VALID IDENTITY DOCUMENT (PASSPORT OR ID-CARD).
During the Tour, it will also be possible to see the exhibit of aviation museum. Military freighters and bombers, military helicopters, as well passengers and multi-purpose aircraft. Museum aircraft are painted in different animal colors. “SKY ZOO”.
Aircraft collection
YL-CAO
3X-GGU UP-I6209 5531 18 61 115 1021 3405 3910 305 LY-AAC | Antonov An-2T (Leaves c/s)
Ilyushin Il-18V Ilyushin Il-62 Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21bis (Tiger c/s) Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21UM Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-23BM (Crocodile c/s) Mil Mi-24D (Red with green dots c/s) PZL TS-11bisB (Red/green/yellow/blue c/s) Sukhoi Su-22M4 Sukhoi Su-22M4 (Leopard c/s) Sukhoi SU-22UM3K Yakovlev Yak-40 (Zebra c/s) |
Key Features of the Sky Zoo (Air Zoo) at Tukums Airport:
- Aircraft Collection:
- The Sky Zoo features a collection of both historical and modern aircraft, offering visitors the opportunity to explore various types of planes and helicopters. The exhibits may include military aircraft, civilian planes, and potentially some experimental aircraft.
- The museum emphasizes aviation history, showcasing aircraft that have been part of Latvia’s aviation heritage, with a special focus on Soviet-era planes, propeller-driven aircraft, and some modern aviation technology.
- Interactive Exhibits:
- The Sky Zoo offers an interactive experience for visitors. You can expect to find exhibitions that allow visitors to learn about the mechanics of flight, aircraft construction, and the evolution of aviation.
- Exhibits may also provide opportunities to explore aircraft interiors, cockpits, and flight simulators, giving guests a hands-on experience of aviation.
- Flight Experiences and Demonstrations:
- Flight demonstrations or airshows may occasionally take place at Tukums Airport, offering visitors a chance to see aircraft in action.
- Depending on the season and availability, visitors can sometimes participate in small aircraft flights, giving them a real-world experience of flying over the beautiful Latvian landscape.
- Aircraft Restoration:
- The museum may also showcase ongoing restoration projects, providing insight into the work that goes into preserving and restoring vintage aircraft.
- Restoration projects are often accompanied by explanations of the techniques and challenges involved in bringing old aircraft back to flying condition or preserving them for display.
- Educational Programs:
- The Sky Zoo provides educational resources for visitors of all ages. These programs often focus on the science of flight, aviation history, and Latvia’s aviation contributions.
- The museum may offer guided tours or workshops that are especially interesting for school groups, aviation enthusiasts, and anyone interested in learning more about how airplanes are built and operated.
- Historical Context of Latvian Aviation:
- The museum highlights the role of Latvia’s aviation industry over the years, particularly during the Soviet era and post-independence periods. It provides valuable information about Latvian pilots, aviation schools, and the country’s aeronautical engineering achievements.
- It also shares the history of Jurmala and the Tukums Airport, which has played a role in local aviation development.
- Atmosphere and Location:
- The Sky Zoo is located within the Tukums Airport complex, offering a unique opportunity to experience aviation in a working environment. Visitors can walk around and sometimes even interact with aircraft that are being used for private flights or flight training.