Dresden Airport Turns 90: A Journey Through Aviation History
Dresden Airport, originally opened in 1935 as a military and civilian airport, is celebrating its 90th anniversary this July 11. Since then, it has served as a significant transportation hub, welcoming a total of 56,304,872 passengers over the years.
The airport's history is rich and varied. During World War II, it served the Luftwaffe, and after the war, it was occupied by Soviet troops. Post-reunification, air traffic surged, with passenger numbers jumping from around 200,000 in 1990 to over one million by 1992.
Dresden Airport has also played a crucial role in aviation history. In the 1950s, it became a center for aviation, producing the Il-14P passenger aircraft and the first German jet-powered transport aircraft, the '152'. Today, it's an economic powerhouse, employing over 4,000 people and attracting prominent semiconductor companies.
To commemorate its history, the airport offers exhibitions and guided tours. A highlight is the two-hour Airport History Tour, which includes a visit to the last remaining fuselage of the legendary '152' aircraft. On October 26, 2025, a lecture by retired Captain Dr. Ulrich Unger on the life of Melli Beese, the first German female pilot from Dresden, will take place at the Aero Lounge.
Dresden Airport, with its 90-year history, has evolved from a military and civilian airport to a vital economic factor and mobility hub. It continues to honor its past while looking towards the future, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich aviation history.
