The Päijät-Hämeen Ilmailumuseo (Päijät-Häme Aviation Museum) is a local aviation museum located in Lahti, in the Päijät-Häme region of southern Finland. The museum is dedicated to showcasing the rich history of aviation in the region and its significant contributions to Finland’s aviation legacy. It features a variety of historical aircraft, aviation memorabilia, and exhibits that highlight both military and civilian aviation in Finland.

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Päijät-Hämeen Ilmailumuseo

Finnish Aviation Museum Society Storage Hangar

Lahti-Vesivehmaa Airfield (Lentokentta)

17130 Vesivehmaa

Finland

www.lahdenilmasilta.fi

lahdenilmasilta@gmail.com

+358 40 5048716

June – August

• Saturday – Sunday 11:00-17:00

Admission fee

Aircraft collection

AEj-59 RI-140 VA-3 VT-6 CA-50 CA-556 GN-112 FM-71 HA-39 9205 13 MU-2 MG-140 HS-5 – DK-207 KA-147

Avro A-32 Blackburn Ripon IIF de Havilland Vampire FB.52 de Havilland Vampire T.55 Caudron C.59 Caudron C.R.174 Folland Gnat FR.1 Fouga CM170 Magister I.V.L. D.26 Haukka 1 I.V.L. K.1 Kurki Kassel 12A Mikoyan Gurevich MiG-15UTI Mikoyan Gurevich MiG-21bis Mil Mi-8PS Republic RC-3 Seabee SAAB 35S Draken Valmet Kotka II

The Päijät-Hämeen Ilmailumuseo displays mainly aircraft of the Finnish Air Force. In 1948, the Finnish Air Force began separating and storing some of the aircraft that had been taken out of service. The aircraft were stored in hangar 4 on former World War II air force base of Vesivehmaa (presently known as Lahti-Vesivehmaa airport, EFLA). They also had a large number of older aircraft in storage. By the end of the 1940s, many of the World War II-era aircraft were sold as scrap. During the late 1970s the aircraft were moved to their current location in hangar 1.

Key Features of the Päijät-Hämeen Ilmailumuseo:

1. Aircraft Collection:
   • The museum’s aircraft collection includes a variety of historic planes, some of which are rare or unique to the Finnish aviation history. This includes military aircraft from World War II, civilian aircraft, and early aviation pioneers’ planes.
   • Notable aircraft in the collection include MiG-15, Morrison MO-1, and various Finnish air force planes that were important during key moments in Finland’s history.
   • The Päijät-Hämeen Ilmailumuseo also displays small aircraft, such as gliders, and local aircraft built or used in the region.
2. Exhibits on Finnish Aviation History:
   • The museum covers a broad range of aviation history, including the early days of aviation in Finland, the development of the Finnish Air Force, and the role of aviation in military conflicts like the Winter War (1939–1940) and Continuation War (1941–1944).
   • It also explores the history of civil aviation in Finland and the role of aviation pioneers, highlighting both famous and lesser-known figures in Finnish aviation history.
3. Aviation Memorabilia:
   • The Päijät-Hämeen Ilmailumuseo has a wide array of aviation artifacts, including flight gear, uniforms, photos, and aircraft models that help to tell the story of Finland’s aviation heritage.
   • You can find equipment related to pilots, including helmets, uniforms, and survival gear, which were used by the Finnish air force during key military operations.
4. Educational Programs and Events:
   • Päijät-Hämeen Ilmailumuseo also offers educational programs aimed at school groups and aviation enthusiasts, helping visitors of all ages learn about the principles of flight, aviation history, and the technological advancements that have taken place in Finland.
   • The museum organizes special exhibitions, aviation-related events, and flying demonstrations on certain occasions.
5. Location and Accessibility:
   • The Päijät-Hämeen Ilmailumuseo is located in Lahti, which is easily accessible from major Finnish cities like Helsinki (about 100 km north). Lahti is a known hub in the Päijät-Häme region, offering visitors a mix of cultural, historical, and outdoor experiences.
   • The museum’s location makes it a great stop for aviation history buffs traveling through the region.

Why Visit the Päijät-Hämeen Ilmailumuseo?

• Aviation Heritage: If you’re a fan of aviation or interested in the history of flight in Finland, this museum provides a detailed and well-curated look at the aircraft and aviation developments important to Finland.
• Historical and Educational: The museum offers an excellent opportunity for students and anyone with an interest in aviation to learn about the role aviation has played in both military and civilian contexts in Finland.
• Family-Friendly: The museum is also a great destination for families, with exhibits and activities that will appeal to children as well as adults.

Whether you’re a history buff, aviation enthusiast, or just curious about Finland’s role in the history of flight, Päijät-Hämeen Ilmailumuseo offers an engaging and educational experience for all.