The museum holds the only existing prototype of the Bartini Beriev VVA-14, an experimental amphibious vertical take-off aircraft.
The collection includes the Tupolev Tu-144, the Soviet Union's first supersonic passenger airliner often compared to the Concorde.
The site was originally a military airfield used for tactical bomber aviation before being converted into a museum in 1958.
Several aircraft on display were flown to the site and landed directly on the short runway at the Monino airfield.
The museum houses rare Soviet 'Ekranoplan' designs, which are ground-effect vehicles capable of flying just above the water surface.
The Central Air Force Museum in Monino is one of the world's largest aviation museums, housing an extensive collection of Soviet-era military aircraft. It is located on the grounds of the former Monino Airfield, which served as a training base for the Gagarin Air Force Academy. The museum features over 170 aircraft, ranging from early 20th-century biplanes to massive Cold War strategic bombers. Key exhibits include the Tupolev Tu-144 supersonic transport and the Myasishchev M-50 prototype. Many of the outdoor exhibits are unique, representing rare flight-test prototypes that never entered mass production. Visitors explore hangars filled with aviation history and an expansive outdoor tarmac where the largest aircraft are displayed. The collection includes helicopters, fighters, and experimental vertical take-off and landing craft.
The wide-angle view from the center of the outdoor tarmac looking toward the rows of strategic bombers and heavy transport aircraft.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes as the outdoor exhibit area covers a large, uneven gravel and grass surface.
Bring weather-appropriate gear, as the outdoor section is fully exposed to wind and rain.
Check official announcements before traveling, as specific hangar access can fluctuate for restoration work.
Attempting to visit during heavy snow or extreme rain, as the outdoor exhibits are difficult to access and visibility of technical markings is limited.
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Often closed on public holidays.
Do not climb on the aircraft, touch the exterior surfaces, or cross perimeter barriers.
