Central Museum of the Air Force Dirgantara Mandala — Attraction in Bantul Regency

As the name suggest, this Museum is dedicated to the Indonesian Air Force, the second oldest Air Force in Southeast Asia after Thai Air Force, located in the military section of Adisucipto Airport, This museum is one of the most complete in Southeast Asia, albeit like many Indonesian museum, the place is rather old and some of the collection has been neglected.

The museum has virtually almost all types of airplanes that is used by the Air Force, and almost all of them are original aircraft. Among the highlight of the collections are the early Japanese aircraft (Including Yokosuka K5Y Willow, Tachikawa Ki-55, Nakajima Ki 43 Hayabusha and Mitsubishi A6M Zero) Early US aircraft (P-51 Mustang, B-24 Mitchell, A-26 Invader, T-38 Trojan, AT-6 Harvard, Bell 47, C-47 Dakota, PBY Catalina and so on) 60s Cold War Eastern Block (MiG-15, 17, 19, 21, Il-28, Tu-16, Mil Mi-4, PZL 104 and etc) 70s-90s Cold War Western Block (CAC Avon Sabre, Hawk Mk 53, T-33 Thunderbird, F-5 Tiger, A-4 Skyhawk, OV-10 Bronco, Bell 205, Sikorsky S-58T Twin Pac, Aerospatiale Super Puma and so on). They are also boasted by diorama illustrating Indonesian Air Force important moments, complete uniforms, medals and insignia used by Indonesian Air Force, Artifact from Air Force and so on.

Recently Indonesian Air Force has launched directive to improve the museum, starting with opening of old Japanese bunker and filled it with historic photos, the opening of Jupiter Wing, dedicated to Jupiter Aerobatic Team of Air Force, Addition of collections such as first C-130 Hercules, Fokker F27 and ex-Dutch Air Force Hawker Hunter. As of late 2017 there are renovation within the hangar that they used to store the plane.

Acessing the site is rather hard, as they are located within active Air Force complex, but most taxi knows where it is, when you entering the site you might need to provide identity in form of ID Card/Driving License/Passport, The fee is, as in many Indonesian museum, very cheap. There are a lot of restaurant and peddlers that offers you food and drinks within the museum compound. For souvenirs there are small shop near the exit of the main building, but they didn't offer much although the price is competitive. Like many Indonesian museum, the area is not disabled friendly and since some of the larger aircraft are in indoor area, sun and rain protection should be brought.

Overall this museum is another recommendation for those who like military history or airplane, although the recent improvement make the Museum feels more comfortable, it's still below western Museum such as IWM Duxford or National Air and Space Museum. But visitors will find the diversity of the aircraft to be entertaining. Especially in...

Museum Dirgantara Yogyakarta is an incredible destination for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The museum boasts an impressive collection of aircraft, historical artifacts, and exhibits that provide a fascinating insight into Indonesia's aviation history.

The displays are well-organized and informative, making it easy to navigate and understand the significance of each exhibit. From vintage airplanes to modern jets, the variety of aircraft on display is truly remarkable. Additionally, the museum provides detailed information about Indonesia's role in aviation, including notable figures and significant events.

The staff at Museum Dirgantara are friendly and knowledgeable, always willing to answer questions and share interesting facts. The facility is clean and well-maintained, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit.

Here are some tips for your visit: Take your time to fully appreciate all the exhibits and displays. If available, consider taking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the exhibits. Don’t forget your camera, as there are many great photo opportunities, especially with the aircraft. Walking through the museum can take some time, so bring water to stay hydrated.

Museum Dirgantara Yogyakarta is a must-visit for anyone interested in aviation and history. It offers a unique and educational experience that is both enjoyable and enriching. Highly recommended for visitors...

Excellent museum with a great collection of aircraft and engines. We (two foreigners) arrived at the gate of the airbase and we were asked to hand in one of our passports by the military police, which was a bit disconcerting. Upon leaving the airbase they handed it back to me, so all was good. Just something to keep in mind when you go here as a foreigner! The museum itself is terrific. There's a large collection of aircraft outside the museum. It is a diverse mix of Russian and American aircraft. Some appear to have access stairs next to them, but they were sadly all locked. You'll also find a few historic vehicles here and there. Then when you go inside you'll find a whole raft of uniforms and dioramas depicting historical events of the Indonesian Air Force. But the best part is the collection of aircraft they have on display. Just like outside, it is a mix of Russian and American aircraft, but you'll also find some European models. Some of which you're even allowed to enter, which is terrific. There is also a dual Mustang simulator, but this was closed off when we visited. When you've finished don't forget to go to the engine museum on the other side of the park! It has the jet engines from most of the aircraft you see on display. We went here on a Monday and it was eerily quiet. The gift shop was also closed. If you don't mind handing your passport over to the military police, it is a greatly...