Emma Mykytyn Lufthansa exhibition opens at Berlin Tempelhof Airport
A new exhibition exploring the early history of Lufthansa has opened at Berlin’s Tempelhof Airport, one of the city’s most fascinating historic sites.
“Lufthansa. Berlin-Tempelhof 1926–1945. Between Civil and Military Aviation” is now on display at the THF TOWER, marking Lufthansa’s 100th anniversary in 2026.
Lufthansa at Berlin Tempelhof
The exhibition looks at Lufthansa’s formative years from 1926 to 1945, when Tempelhof served as the airline’s home airport. It traces the rise of Lufthansa from civil aviation pioneer to one of Europe’s major airlines, while also examining its connections to the state, the military and National Socialism.
Alongside the excitement of early air travel, the exhibition takes a critical look at Lufthansa’s role in rebuilding Germany’s air force, armaments production and the use of forced labour during the Second World War.
What to see at the exhibition
Visitors can explore around 200 exhibits, including photographs, advertising materials, historical documents, contemporary publications and original film footage.
Highlights include the 1935 Lufthansa propaganda film Letters Fly Across the Ocean and a specially created animation showing the development of Lufthansa’s route network between 1926 and 1945.
The exhibition also shares the stories of people connected to Lufthansa’s history, including aviation pioneers, company executives, forced labourers and resistance member Klaus Bonhoeffer.
Views from the THF TOWER
The sixth floor of the THF TOWER is also part of the experience, offering sweeping views across Tempelhof Airport and Tempelhofer Feld. Large window displays connect the view today with the airport’s layered past.
Events and educational programme
An accompanying programme of talks, screenings and discussions will take place in June 2026, including a screening of The Two Lives of Lufthansa, panel discussions on history and responsibility after 1945, and lectures exploring Lufthansa and escape from National Socialism.
Visitor information
- Exhibition: Lufthansa. Berlin-Tempelhof 1926–1945. Between Civil and Military Aviation
- Location: THF TOWER, Tempelhof Airport, Tempelhofer Damm 45, 12101 Berlin
- Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 11am – 6pm
- Admission: €5 standard / €3 reduced
- Combined ticket: Guided tour and exhibition €20.50 / €13.50 reduced
- Runs from: 28 May 2026
Why visit?
For anyone interested in aviation history, Berlin history or the complex legacy of Tempelhof Airport, this exhibition offers a thoughtful and sometimes challenging look at how civil aviation, politics and military power became deeply connected in the first half of the 20th century.
