Ready to discover a place that has seen Wehrmacht Luftwaffe, British forces and rock legends? This is the Flugplatz Lüneburg. It is more than just an airfield.
Flugplatz Lüneburg, with the ICAO code EDHG, is near Lüneburg in Lower Saxony. Today, it serves as a special landing field. It is open to various aircraft up to 2000 kg. Helicopters up to 5700 kg are also permitted. Balloon rides can start from here. This makes it a popular destination for families and business people. It is an important part of the Lüneburg Heath region.
But let’s go back in time. Before its current civilian use, Flugplatz Lüneburg was a military airfield. The Wehrmacht Luftwaffe used it before and during World War II. Many active flying units were stationed here. This was between 1938 and 1945. Kampfgeschwader 4 and Kampfgeschwader 100 were among them.
Imagine April 18, 1944. About thirty aircraft bomb the Lüneburg Air Base. The air raid caused extensive damage. But the airfield remained operational. In the spring of 1945, British forces captured it. They designated it Advanced Landing Ground B 156. Several RAF squadrons used the airfield.
After the war, the British Air Forces of Occupation took control. Upgrading work occurred during the Berlin Airlift.
Today, the Flugplatz Lüneburg is managed by Luftsportverein Lüneburg. The city owns the approximately 20-hectare site. The club was allowed to use it free of charge until 2015.
But the Flugplatz Lüneburg is not only about aviation history. It has also hosted major events. In 1993 and 1995, the Rock Over Germany concerts took place here. Tina Turner, Prince, Joe Cocker and Rod Stewart performed.
However, the airfield has also faced challenges. In 2012, there was talk of closing it. This was to create new commercial space. The Luftsportverein started a petition to save the airfield. In 2019, the city initially decided not to extend the lease. The Luftsportverein launched a citizens’ initiative. In a referendum in 2020, about 82% voted to keep the airfield.
Today, the Flugplatz Lüneburg is used by the Luftsportverein. It also serves as a base for the Lower Saxony fire service aircraft.
The Flugplatz Lüneburg has faced criticism. Residents often complain about noise. There are also safety concerns. Yet, environmentalists support the airfield. The area around the runway is a refuge for rare plants and animals.
Unfortunately, there have been accidents over the years. These include crashes and emergency landings.
Despite the challenges, the Flugplatz Lüneburg remains an important part of the region. It is a place where aviation history comes alive. It is a destination for aviation enthusiasts and families.