The National Museum of Aviation in Bucharest is a fascinating place not only for aviation enthusiasts, but for anyone who wants to learn more about history, technology, and technical and military heritage.

The Bucharest Aviation Museum is not only an impressive collection of aircraft and artifacts; it is also a place where visitors can better understand the crucial role that aviation has played in Romania's modern development. Situated on a generous surface area, the museum offers a comprehensive and engaging educational experience.

National Aviation Museum - History 

The museum opened in 1993, in 5 field tents on the military airfield at Otopeni. In 1995, the Military Aviation Command assigned the museum a space in front of the Băneasa International Airport. Here, it operated until 1998, and then the Air Force General Staff assigned a new exhibition space near Otopeni International Airport, inaugurated on March 2, 2000.

Since 2006, the National Museum of Romanian Aviation has been located in the northern part of Bucharest, in the hangars that in the first half of the 20th century were located on the south side of the Pipera military airfield. This aerodrome was established in 1915 to train pilots who had graduated from the Cotroceni Military Flying School.

The Aviation Museum was created to preserve and exhibit collections of airplanes, equipment and documents related to the history of Romanian aviation. Over the years, the museum has amassed an impressive collection of aircraft and artifacts that reflect Romania's technological development and aeronautical performance.

National Aviation Museum - Museum Collection

The museum covers both civil and military aviation, providing a detailed look at how aircraft have been used for commercial and defense purposes. Visitors can see how aviation technology has evolved over the decades and how it has influenced transportation, communications and military strategies.

- IAR 80: A Romanian World War II fighter plane known for its exceptional performance.

- MiG-21: One of the most famous supersonic airplanes in the world, used by the Romanian Air Force.

- Hawk 75A: A fighter used by the Romanian Air Force during World War II.

National Aviation Museum - Exhibitions and sections

The museum is organized in several sections covering different aspects of aviation:

The Historical Hall: offers a foray into the history of Romanian aviation, with exhibits dating from the beginnings of flight to the present day. For researchers and history buffs, the museum provides a vast library and archive with documents, photographs and logbooks. These resources are invaluable for those who wish to deepen their knowledge of Romanian aviation and its contributions to global aviation.

Technical Hall: showcases aviation equipment and technology, including engines, on-board instruments and communication equipment.

Open Air Exhibition: Houses large aircraft, including airplanes and helicopters, which can be admired up close.

National Aviation Museum - Activities and events

The Aviation Museum frequently organizes events and activities for all ages, including:

Educational workshops: for children and young people, where they can learn about the principles of flight and aviation history. The Aviation Museum is also involved in projects to restore historic aircraft. These projects are essential to preserving technical heritage and provide volunteer and learning opportunities for students and aviation enthusiasts. Restoring these aircraft not only adds value to the museum, but also preserves history for future generations. Through educational programs and collaborations with educational institutions, the museum is helping to develop a new generation of aviation professionals.

Temporary exhibitions: dealing with specific themes in aviation history or aeronautical technology. The Museum collaborates with various organizations and institutions to offer special programs such as traveling exhibitions and participation in international events. These partnerships help promote the museum and increase the visibility of Romanian aviation on the global stage.

Demonstrations and air shows: special occasions where visitors can see historic airplanes in flight.

National Aviation Museum - Visiting the museum

Located in Sector 2, at 2-4 Fabrica de Glucoza Street, the Aviation Museum is open to the public from Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00. Entrance tickets are affordable and organized groups are offered guided tours for an educational and interactive experience.

The Bucharest Aviation Museum is a place where the past takes wings, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the history and evolution of aviation. Whether you're an airplane enthusiast or just curious to learn more about this fascinating part of history, the Aviation Museum is a destination not to be missed.