Fliegerhorst

A Fliegerhorst, or flying field, was a military airbase used by the German Luftwaffe during World War II. The term is derived from the German words "fliegen" (to fly) and "Ort" (place). Fliegerhorste were typically large, flat areas of land, often located near major cities or transportation hubs, to facilitate the rapid movement of aircraft and personnel.

The construction of Fliegerhorste began in the late 1930s, with the goal of creating a network of airbases that would allow the Luftwaffe to project power across Europe. Each Fliegerhorst was designed to accommodate a variety of aircraft types, including fighters, bombers, and reconnaissance planes. They were equipped with runways, hangars, control towers, and other support facilities.

During the war, Fliegerhorste played a crucial role in the Luftwaffe's operations. They served as bases for both offensive and defensive missions, and were often the target of Allied bombing raids. Despite the damage inflicted by the Allies, many Fliegerhorste remained operational throughout the war, and some continued to be used by the Luftwaffe after the end of the conflict.

Today, many former Fliegerhorste have been repurposed for civilian use, such as airports or industrial parks. Others have been preserved as historical sites, offering visitors a glimpse into the past and the role that aviation played in World War II.