In the footsteps of the Danube: a flying journey of discovery

Von WOM

The Danube, often referred to as "beautiful blue Danube", presents itself on a recently carried out reader trip of the flying magazine in other colors. The starting point was the Mühldorf am Inn airfield, where twelve planes with 22 travelers opened to an adventure along the second longest river in Europe in mid -September. While the guests started on a brunch on the trips, flirted fog swaths over the small river, which was only recognizable here and there as the Danube.

The first stop led the group to Passau and then to the impressive Wachau in Austria. Here the old hands of aviation history experienced how communication with the flight information service (FIS) showed the upcoming airspace injuries in a playful way. “Friendly questions” of the FIS were a hint that it was time to change the course or height.

flight via the Wachau

from Krems, the travelers drove to the picturesque town of Dürnstein, where they were sitting on the terrace of the Hotel Schloss Dürnstein and climbing a relaxing boat trip on the Danube. On board the traditional wooden boats, called Zille, they enjoyed exquisite wines from the region as they drove downstream. The impressive landscape of the valley breakthrough, which the Danube created here, emphasized the beauty of this region.

After a short look at Vienna, the travelers flew to Hungary to look at the Balaton from the air. A fuel stop and border control in Arad were a challenge, but the group was well looked after and finally it could go on to the next adventure.

The border with Serbia

The location near Drobeta Turnu Severin, where the Danube forms the border with Serbia, became particularly sensitive. Again and again the FIS controllers pointed out to avoid the Serbian airspace. However, the region surrounded by the Carpathians offers breathtaking views that are even more impressive from the air. Old Roman traces and historical sites characterize this area and create a fascinating picture of history.

The stay on the private slope of the friendly Endre Molnar in Drobeta concluded the group with a warm welcome, including landing drinks and snacks. Endre is known for its helpful way and offers support for air travelers who linger in the region.

Then the group visited sights in the iron gate and recreation areas in Herculesbad, where the impressive baroque pool architecture can be admired. Despite the difficult storm conditions in the region, the travelers were able to explore the spectacular nature of the Danube Delta and enjoy the peaceful, albeit near war area.

at Tulcea airfield, which offers pulsating life every day, the group was rarely disappointed. The reception was warm and despite the difficulties associated with refueling, there was time to experience the nature of the delta. During the stay, the entire group was spoiled with fresh fish and local cuisine.

In view of the geopolitical situation, the question was raised whether a trip near Ukraine was justified. However, many have decided to travel without being influenced by the conflicts in the neighboring country.

Overall, the trip offered an exciting exploration of the unknown east of Europe and found that aviation was less complicated and sharper than expected. The travelers had the opportunity to see fascinating landscapes by scanning the Danube in all its splendor and making new friendships.