The Oerlinghausen Airfield Association

Oerlinghausen Airfield is operated by Flugplatzgemeinschaft e.V. Oerlinghausen (FGOe for short). This is an association of twelve non-profit aviation clubs from the East Westphalia-Lippe region – including clubs from places like Oerlinghausen, Bielefeld, Detmold, Herford, Gütersloh, Bad Salzuflen, Beckum-Oelde-Ahlen, Rheda-Wiedenbrück, and Halle/Westphalia.

Since 1952, our airfield has been a hub for aviation enthusiasts and a vibrant community. Around 1,000 active members are involved in various air sports – with over 100 gliders and about 75 light aircraft (up to 2.5 tons) based here.

With around 50,000 take-offs and landings per year, Oerlinghausen is one of the most active glider airfields in the world. During the flying season – from March through October – you’ll see gliders launching from five separate winch launch positions or via aerotow, as well as self-launching aircraft.

But it’s not just gliding! Our airfield is also home to motorgliders, ultralight aircraft, hang gliders, paragliders, model airplanes, hot air balloons, and a few light powered aircraft.

The airfield covers approximately 650,000 m², with about 80,000 m² used for active flying operations. The grounds are owned by the Flugplatzgemeinschaft e.V.

Oerlinghausen holds special official status in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia: it’s designated as a “priority airfield for gliding” and recognized as a state-level gliding performance center. Our international gliding school offers structured training courses and is also used for national-level training.

Important note for pilots: Oerlinghausen is a special airfield (“Sonderlandeplatz”), so please be sure to contact flight operations for all necessary information before flying in.

You don’t have to be a pilot to enjoy what we offer!

The airfield is a popular destination for day trips – whether you’re here to watch the take-offs and landings, enjoy food and drink at our on-site restaurant, or even experience a scenic flight yourself. You’ll find plenty of parking options nearby and a welcoming atmosphere.

Pro tip: Combine your visit with a short trip into the picturesque town of Oerlinghausen! Highlights include the Archaeological Open-Air Museum and the regional nature conservation area “Senner Raum”.

Come by and experience the fascination of flight – up close, at Oerlinghausen Airfield!