Rechlin-Lärz Luftfahrtmuseum

The Rechlin-Lärz Luftfahrtmuseum, located near the town of Rechlin in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany, offers a fascinating look into the region’s significant role in aviation history. Rechlin and the nearby Lärz airfield were central to Germany’s aviation development and testing, especially during the early 20th century and World War II.

Rechlin-Lärz Luftfahrtmuseum

Am Flugplatz

17248 Lärz

Germany

+49 39833 26692

April – October

  • Daily 10:00 – 17:00

Aircraft collection

Rechlin-Lärz Luftfahrtmuseum, Germany
D-ILHA

61+05

35+99

07

23+96

94+10

D-EOXS

Beech C90 King Air

Brequet/Dornier Br.1150 Atlantique

Fiat G91R/3

Mikoyan Gurevich MiG-17F

Mikoyan Gurevich MiG-21U-600

Mil Mi-8TB

PZL 104-35A Wilga

Historical Background

  • Rechlin served as Germany’s primary aviation research and testing center, established in 1918 and significantly expanded under the Nazi regime.
  • The adjacent Lärz airfield was used for practical flight testing and training.
  • After World War II, the area came under Soviet control, and the facilities were used by the East German military.

Key Attractions of the Rechlin-Lärz Luftfahrtmuseum

  1. Aircraft Displays
    • A wide range of military and civilian aircraft from different eras is showcased, including:
      • World War II-era planes.
      • Cold War and modern-era aviation.
    • Restored aircraft engines, cockpits, and components provide an in-depth look at aeronautical engineering.
  2. Aviation Artifacts
    • Historical instruments, navigation devices, and aeronautical tools used in flight testing.
    • Models and blueprints of aircraft developed and tested at Rechlin.
  3. Rechlin’s Role in Nazi Aviation
    • The Rechlin-Lärz Luftfahrtmuseum explores Rechlin’s contributions to Nazi Germany’s Luftwaffe, including the testing of advanced designs like the Messerschmitt Me 262, the first operational jet fighter.
    • Exhibits highlight the ethical dilemmas and consequences of wartime aviation development.
  4. Cold War and Beyond
    • A section focuses on the Soviet and East German use of the facilities, showcasing post-war aviation technology and its evolution.
  5. Interactive Exhibits
    • Visitors can experience flight simulators and cockpit displays.
    • Multimedia presentations provide immersive insights into aviation milestones.
  6. Historical Context
    • The Rechlin-Lärz Luftfahrtmuseum delves into the socio-political impact of aviation technology, including its use in both military and civilian contexts.
    • Personal stories and documents bring the human element to life.