In the 1920s, technical progress in the aviation industry fired the hopes of adventurers, explorers and, last but not least, political strategists around the globe. It was during this period that one of the most important Dornier flying boats was built: the Dornier “Wal”.
Changing the rules of the game is Claude Dornier's motto at the time. Due to the restrictions of the Treaty of Versailles, he moves production of his flying boat Do J "Wal" abroad. Strategically, he succeeds in selling the first six Wal flying boats despite scarce financial resources – off the drawing board, without a finished prototype.
"The Wal made Dornier"
In the years to come, the reliability, robustness and durability of the Wal enable Wolfgang von Gronau, Roald Amundsen and numerous other aviation pioneers to set new records and go on dangerous adventures. Thus, the flying boat reaches the Arctic, Antarctic, crosses the North and South Atlantic and the tropics. And last but not least, the Wal proves to be a "game changer" for the then still young Deutsche Luft Hansa airline. Combined with the catapult ships, the Wals fly in the international airmail service – a springboard that makes Claude Dornier and his designs famous around the globe.
The exciting history of the pioneering achievements, records and expeditions of the Dornier Wal can be experienced in the new special exhibition "Game Changer", using historic and contemporary documents and exhibits.
The exhibition is designed as a board game, which was widespread in the 1920s, and is used as a medium to convey the history of the Dornier Wal. Technology from the present and future contrast the traditional idea. A highlight of the exhibition is the walk-through of the Dornier Wal in virtual reality. Using the latest VR technology, visitors can sit in the cockpit and experience the Wal up close.
The special exhibition "Game Changer" will be open from 11 November, 2022 during regular opening hours. The museum will be open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am - 5 pm.
| All information at a glance | ||
Opening: | 11th November, 2022 | |
Open until: | Summer 2023 | |
Admission: | Included in general museum admission | |
Photos: Airbus Corporate Heritage, Dornier Stiftung für Luft- und Raumfahrt
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