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Päijänne Tavastia Aviation Museum: A Flight Through Finnish History

Discover Finnish aviation history at the Päijänne Tavastia Aviation Museum in Vesivehmaa, showcasing vintage aircraft and the legacy of flight.

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Explore the Päijänne Tavastia Aviation Museum in Vesivehmaa, near Lahti, Finland, and discover a collection of meticulously preserved aircraft, primarily from the Finnish Air Force. This unique museum offers a glimpse into the history of Finnish aviation, showcasing aircraft from different eras.

A brief summary to Päijänne Tavastia Aviation Museum

  • Saturday 11 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on weekends for special guided tours that provide deeper insights into the aircraft and their history.
  • Plan to spend at least two hours to fully enjoy all the exhibits and learn about the aviation stories.
  • Check the museum's website for any temporary exhibitions or events that might coincide with your visit.
  • Bring your camera; the aircraft displays make for great photo opportunities !
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Lahti, take bus line 40 towards Vesivehmaa. The bus departs from Sammonkatu P and arrives at Vesivehmaa. The journey takes approximately 23 minutes. From the Vesivehmaa bus stop, the museum is a short walk away. Bus tickets cost between €4 and €6.

  • Taxi

    From Lahti, a taxi to the Päijänne Tavastia Aviation Museum takes about 20 minutes. The estimated cost is €40-€50.

  • Car

    From Lahti, take Route 12 towards Heinola. Take the exit towards Asikkala and continue on Asikkalan tie. Turn left onto Lentotie. The museum is located at Lentotie 89c. Free parking is available on-site.

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Discover more about Päijänne Tavastia Aviation Museum

The Päijänne Tavastia Aviation Museum, located in Vesivehmaa, near Lahti, is dedicated to preserving Finland's rich aviation history. The museum, known as Vesivehmaan varastohalli (the Vesivehmaa storage hall) until 2006, displays a variety of aircraft, mainly from the Finnish Air Force. The museum's story began in 1937 when Vesivehmaa was selected as the site for a new airfield. Construction started in 1939, and the first aircraft landed in 1940. During World War II, the airfield served as a base for fighter, bomber, and reconnaissance squadrons. In 1948, the Finnish Air Force decided to store its wooden and fabric-covered aircraft in a hangar at Vesivehmaa. In 1974, these planes were moved to Hangar 1, the museum's current location. The museum is operated by Lahden Ilmasilta ry, an association founded in 1962 to preserve the remaining aircraft. Today, the museum displays 13 airplanes and almost 300 other larger objects. Among the notable aircraft on display are the Blackburn Ripon IIF, the only complete Ripon left in the world, as well as the Folland Gnat Mk.1, Fouga Magister CM 170, and several MiG fighters. The museum also features civil aircraft and Finnish Air Force aircraft awaiting restoration. Visitors can explore the museum's collection and learn about the history of Finnish aviation through guided tours led by knowledgeable presenters. The museum's outdoor displays complement the indoor exhibits, offering a delightful experience.

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