Florianskirche church and Maibaum in Trudering Munich with airplane symbol

Munich Riem Airport

Munich-Riem Airport Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Munich-Riem Airport is etched in Munich’s urban and aviation history as the city’s main airport from 1939 to 1992. Developed to replace the constrained Oberwiesenfeld airfield, it was designed as a modern aviation hub on Munich’s eastern edge, pivotal during WWII and the postwar period. Over five decades, it witnessed technological milestones, tragic events such as the 1958 Munich Air Disaster, and ultimately, its own closure and transformation into Messestadt Riem and Riemer Park. Today, visitors can engage with preserved monuments, explore green spaces, and trace the site’s rich legacy. This guide details Munich-Riem Airport’s history, significance, visiting information—including hours and tickets—and insights for travelers, history buffs, and aviation enthusiasts (Forgotten Airfields; flughafen-muenchen-riem.de; outdooractive.com; Munich Airport History; wikipedia.org; Absolute Munich).

Origins and Construction (1936–1939)
Wartime and Postwar Significance
Expansion, Modernization, and Constraints
Notable Incidents and Memorials
Closure and Redevelopment
Surviving Structures and Heritage
Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Experience
Getting There and Accessibility
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Recommendations
Sources

Origins and Construction (1936–1939)

Munich-Riem Airport was conceived in the mid-1930s to address the limitations of Oberwiesenfeld airfield. Construction began in 1936 on Munich’s eastern outskirts. Though scheduled to open on September 1, 1939, the outbreak of WWII delayed its inauguration. The first official landing was on October 25, 1939, with a Lufthansa Junkers Ju 52/3m from Berlin. The airport’s modern facilities marked a leap forward in German aviation infrastructure (Forgotten Airfields).

Wartime and Postwar Significance

During WWII, the site served as a Luftwaffe base, adapting its infrastructure for military use and enduring several Allied air raids. In the postwar era, despite damage, the airport quickly resumed operations, symbolizing Munich’s recovery. The 1950s saw runway extensions and the arrival of jet aircraft, notably the first jet landing in 1958. Riem became a gateway for international and domestic travel, representing the city’s economic revival (Forgotten Airfields; flughafen-muenchen-riem.de).

Expansion, Modernization, and Constraints

The 1960s–1980s brought rapid passenger growth and new facilities, including extended runways and new terminals. The airport played a central role during the 1972 Summer Olympics, yet was soon overwhelmed by demand, with annual passengers exceeding 12 million by 1991. Urban encroachment and infrastructure limitations made further expansion impossible, prompting the decision to relocate operations (Forgotten Airfields; Munich Airport History).

Notable Incidents and Memorials

1958 Munich Air Disaster

On February 6, 1958, British European Airways Flight 609 crashed during takeoff in adverse weather, killing 23 people, including members of the Manchester United football team. This tragedy is memorialized in Riemer Park, near the former airport site, as a lasting tribute to the victims (outdooractive.com).

Security Challenges

The airport also experienced security incidents, such as the 1982 bombing in the departure area for flights to Israel, highlighting its international significance during tense geopolitical periods (Forgotten Airfields).

Closure and Redevelopment

Recognizing its operational limits, Munich-Riem closed in May 1992 when Munich Franz Josef Strauss Airport opened. The transition was completed overnight without flight cancellations. After closure, the site hosted cultural events (including Nirvana’s last concert in 1994) before being redeveloped as Messestadt Riem—a district combining the Messe München trade fair, Riemer Park, and residential neighborhoods (Forgotten Airfields; Absolute Munich).

Surviving Structures and Heritage

Key remnants include:

Control Tower (Brainlab Tower): Preserved as a protected monument, now part of the Brainlab headquarters. The exterior is visible to the public, though interior access is limited to special events (outdooractive.com).
Wappenhalle: The original terminal building, restored and repurposed for events and conferences. Its architectural details reflect the airport’s historical grandeur (wikipedia.org).
Runway Remnants: A small section remains at the eastern edge, integrated into Riemer Park as a subtle reminder of the airport’s operational past (flughafen-muenchen-riem.de).

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Experience

Riemer Park: Open daily from dawn (typically 6:00 AM) until dusk (up to 10:00 PM in summer). Admission is free; no tickets are required (Absolute Munich).
Wappenhalle: Publicly accessible only during scheduled events; entry may require event-specific tickets (wikipedia.org).
Brainlab Tower: No regular public access; the exterior can be viewed anytime during park hours.
Manchester United Memorial: Located within Riemer Park; accessible during park opening hours without charge (outdooractive.com).
Guided Tours: Seasonal tours are available, covering aviation history and urban redevelopment. Check the Munich tourism office or Messe München’s official site for current offerings and booking information.

Getting There and Accessibility

Public Transport: U2 subway line to Messestadt Ost or Messestadt West stations. Both are within easy walking distance of Riemer Park and the former airport area (happytowander.com).
Parking: Available near the Messe München and Riem Arcaden shopping center.
Accessibility: Wide, paved paths throughout the park and district ensure wheelchair and stroller access. Restrooms and playgrounds are available. Pets are permitted on a leash.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for Riemer Park and the airport remnants?
A: Riemer Park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. The outdoor airport relics are accessible during these hours.

Q: Is there an entry fee or ticket required?
A: No, access to outdoor areas and memorials is free. Event venues like the Wappenhalle may require tickets for specific events.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, seasonal guided tours are offered; check with the Munich tourism office or Messe München for schedules and booking.

Q: How do I reach the site by public transportation?
A: Take the U2 subway line to Messestadt Ost or Messestadt West. Both stations are near park entrances.

Q: Are facilities available?
A: Restrooms, playgrounds, and picnic areas are found throughout the park. Additional services are available at Riem Arcaden and Messe München.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the area features paved paths and accessible facilities.

Q: Can I bring my pet?
A: Yes, but pets must be kept on a leash.

Summary and Visitor Recommendations

Munich-Riem Airport represents a significant chapter in Munich’s aviation and urban evolution. From its pioneering construction and technological advances to its role in global events and its closure, the airport has shaped both the city’s skyline and identity. The transformation into Messestadt Riem and Riemer Park is a model of sustainable urban redevelopment, preserving historical elements while offering modern recreation and community spaces.

Visitor Tips:

Explore the preserved control tower and Wappenhalle.
Walk themed routes through Riemer Park to discover historical markers.
Visit the Manchester United Memorial for a poignant historical connection.
Check for guided tours or local events to deepen your experience.
Enjoy the park’s facilities, including playgrounds, picnic spots, and swimming areas in the artificial lake.
Use public transport for easy and eco-friendly access.

For a comprehensive, engaging visit, consider downloading the Audiala app for guided tours, real-time updates, and additional resources on Munich’s historical sites.