15 May marks the anniversary of the 2nd Air Regiment – one of the largest and most important units of the Polish military air force during the interwar period (1921–1939), which was stationed at Rakowice-Czyżyny airfield, where the Polish Aviation Museum is now located.
On 15 May, we celebrate the anniversary of this unique unit – established in 1929 by Marshal Józef Piłsudski as a tribute to the importance of military aviation within the structures of the reborn Republic of Poland
The 2nd Air Regiment was one of the most important and best-trained air units before the war. It encompassed the full spectrum of pre-war military aviation – from fighter and transport pilots, through observers and air gunners, to mechanics and aircraft technicians. They all served, trained and honed their skills right here in Rakowice, before going on to make a lasting mark on the history of the September 1939 campaign.
It was here, too, that the Regimental Flying School operated from 1936, where pilots could continue their flight training. Among the aircraft that took to the skies – such as the Potez, Breguet and RWD-14 Czapla – the iconic PZL P.11c holds a special place. This legendary fighter, the sole surviving example of which we proudly display in our collection, stands as a testament to the engineering ingenuity and heroism of Polish aviators, and is one of the Museum’s most valuable exhibits.
Although the turmoil of war scattered the unit, its spirit has endured, and we proudly continue the mission of preserving its memory through the organisation of exhibitions, guided tours and educational events.
We are delighted to announce that it was on the historic site of the 2nd Air Regiment that, in 2024, the Polish Aviation Museum completed the restoration of Hangar No. 5. This impressive building, with its meticulously integrated historic gable wall, is both a living monument to the past and a gateway to the future. Its façade proudly displays aviation chequerboards and a galloping horse – the symbol of the legendary 122nd Fighter Squadron – serving as a reminder of the courage and sacrifice of aviators.
Since last August, Hangar No. 5 has also been home to a new permanent exhibition, ‘With the Wind and Against the Wind – Civil Aviation’. It is the largest exhibition of its kind in Poland, telling the hundred-year history of Polish civil aviation in a unique way – from pioneering flights to modern air travel. It is a testament to the unceasing passion and development that have shaped the Polish skies.
Visitors to the Main Hangar can see the exhibition ‘The History of the 2nd Air Regiment’, which tells the story of the regiment’s formation and activities.
To mark the anniversary of the 2nd Air Regiment, we warmly invite you to the Polish Aviation Museum in Kraków. Come and soak up the atmosphere of history, pay tribute to the heroes, and discover the fascinating world of aviation.
