Royal Air Force Station Gatow

RAF Gatow is a former airbase on Berlin's western edge that now serves as a museum and memorial site. The facility preserves original structures and sections of the historic runway that remain visible today.

The airfield was built between 1934 and 1935 and initially served as a flight training school. After World War II, British forces took over the site and it became important during the Berlin Blockade.

The Aviation Museum displays aircraft and documents showing how German aviation developed across different periods. Visitors can see how flying technology changed over many decades through the preserved examples.

The museum site is primarily accessible through organized tours that guide visitors through the preserved areas. Visitors should check ahead, as opening times are limited and may vary depending on weather conditions.

During the Berlin Blockade, the site saw unusual operations using flying boats that launched from nearby Wannsee lake. This was the only operation of its kind in central Europe during that period.

Location: Spandau

Inception: 1935

Official opening: April 1, 1936

Elevation above the sea: 49 m

GPS coordinates: 52.47444,13.13806

Latest update: December 20, 2025 11:42