Discover the History and Exhibits at the Polish Aviation Museum in Krakow

The famous quote from the cult Polish comedy "Boys Don't Cry" by Bohdan Łazuka, "And if they want to go to the aviation museum, you'll take them to the aviation museum," is known by almost every Pole. The Polish Aviation Museum in Krakow deserves recognition as well. Dive into the history of this unique place and learn about the exhibits you can see at the aviation museum. We invite you to read on and later visit the museum yourself!

History

The aviation museum is located on the grounds of the Czyżyny Airport, which was established in 1912. During its time, the airport was an important hub for European airmail. However, due to urban development in the area, the airport lost its significance after 1945. In 1963, the facility was handed over to the city, and soon after, it became the home of the museum, which began collecting various aircraft.

Aircraft Exhibits

The exhibits come from various sources; the most surprising fact is that 25 machines come from Hermann Göring's collection (one of the founders and main figures of Nazi Germany's Third Reich), which was taken over as abandoned property after the war. Among the exhibits are the Viggen, donated by the Swedish Air Force Command, the P11.c aircraft that took part in the September 1939 campaign, and the American Northrop F-5E Tiger II, which was captured during the Vietnam War. The variety of over 200 objects makes a visit to the museum an incredibly interesting and educational experience, even for those unfamiliar with the subject. Displayed are airplanes, gliders, helicopters, and anti-aircraft missile systems. The exhibition covers several hangars and an extensive outdoor display, with the size and park-like resemblance making the museum visit a pleasant walk as well.

Indoor Exhibits and Visiting

Opening hours and prices can be found at the following website:
muzeumlotnictwa.pl

Tuesdays offer free admission.

Audioguide and Guided Tours

The museum provides audioguides in Polish, English, and Ukrainian for visitors who wish to explore the exhibits at their own pace. Additionally, guided tours are available in Polish, English, and German for those who prefer a more in-depth and interactive experience. Be sure to inquire about these services when planning your visit to make the most of your time at the museum.

With the available audioguides and guided tours, exploring the Polish Aviation Museum in Krakow has never been more accessible and engaging. Be sure to take advantage of these resources during your visit and immerse yourself in the captivating history of aviation.

How to get there?

Take any tram that stops at the "muzeum lotnictwa" station.

Aerial Acrobatics and More

• Every year in June, the museum hosts the Małopolska Aviation Picnic. During this event, you can see many incredible aerial shows on the Krakow sky, where acrobatic masters demonstrate their skills, and admire numerous historic aircraft that have arrived for the event. The picnic also features plenty of ground attractions.
• In 2018, on the occasion of the aviation picnic, trams stopping at the museum played the famous quote from "Boys Don't Cry" - "And if they want to go to the Aviation Museum, you'll take them to the aviation museum, …" (without the vulgar ending, of course).
• Near the museum, in the Polish Aviators Park, there is a monument to Polish aviators who died on all fronts of World War II, created by Bronisław Chromy.

In conclusion, the Polish Aviation Museum in Krakow offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of aviation through its diverse collection of aircraft, gliders, helicopters, and anti-aircraft missile systems. With easy access by tram, informative audioguides in multiple languages, and guided tours in Polish, English, and German, visitors can enjoy a comprehensive and engaging experience. Don't miss the annual Małopolska Aviation Picnic, where you can witness incredible aerial acrobatics and admire rare historic aircraft. Pay a visit to the nearby Polish Aviators Park to honor the memory of the brave Polish aviators who fought in World War II. A visit to the Polish Aviation Museum is not only educational but also a pleasant walk through a park-like setting, making it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts and tourists alike.

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