Lehrblätter für die technische Ausbildung in der Luftwaffe: Flugzeugkunde

The handy Lehrblätter für die technische Ausbildung in der Luftwaffe: Flugzeugkunde [Instructional Leaflets For The Technical Education In The Luftwaffe: Aircraft Theory] is an instructional publication used in the schools of the Luftwaffe in the late 1930s and first half of the 1940s. This small folder (19 by 13 cm), published in 1938 by Verlag Bernard & Graefe, Berlin, contains 82 individual pages, printed on both sides, of information and illustrations on all aspects of an aircraft's technical components.

As can be seen by means of the sample pages shown above and below, the subject matter is subdivided into sequential thematic sections, starting with a concise description of the classification of flying vehicles [Einteilung der Luftfahrzeuge], outlining the various types of lighter-than-air and heavier-than-air craft. This is followed by an equally concise chapter on the specific classifications of powered aircraft [Einteilung der Motorflugzeuge].

The main body of the publication, titled Aufbau des Flugzeuges, is dedicated to a far more detailed look at the various technical components of an aircraft, however. It details the wing, empennage, control systems, landing gear, floats, fuselage, and powerplant. All of this is enhanced by means of detail photos, drawings, tables, and, if necessary, mathematic formulae. Most of this information is still applicable and highly enlightening, even by today's standards.

The final third of the publication offers brief technical descriptions of an extensive selection of aircraft of the period, each featured aircraft also being illustrated. The aircraft included are: Arado Ar 66, Ar 68, Ar 76, Ar 77, Ar 95, Ar 96; Bayerische Flugzeugwerke [!] Bf 109; Bücker Bü 131, Dornier Do 18, Do 19, Do 23; Fieseler Fi 156; Focke-Wulf Fw 44, Fw 56, Fw 58, Fw 159; Gotha Go 145; Hamburger Flugzeugbau Ha 139; Heinkel He 45, He 46, He 51, He 59, He 70, He72, He 111; Junkers W33/34, Ju 52, Ju 86, Ju 89/90; Klemm Kl 25, Kl 35.

The folder reproduced here was issued by the Lehrmittelabteilung [teaching aid department] of Fliegertechnische Schule 5, Wischau (Moravia). Fliegertechnische Schule 5 was established in 1941 as the instructional arm of Luftflotte 5 in Wischau. It was dissolved on 12 February 1945. (German Aviation 1919-1945 Collection)