AEROCLUB COMO

Aeroclub Como

A look at the famous seaplanes of Lake Como and the clubhouse that keeps them operational.

The first Seaplane or “Idrovolante” as the Italians call it took off from Lake Como on October 5th 1913, piloted by a Frenchman by the name of Roland Garros (yes, that Roland Garros). From that moment forward Lake Como became a test ground for ambitious early aviators to put their designs to the test leading up to the First World War, and only increased thereafter.

To service the burgeoning aquatic aeronautical community of the Lombardy region in 1929 the Aeroclub Como was incorporated with the doors officially open to its lakeside hangar in early 1930. It has been in continuous operation ever since. This makes the Aeroclub Como the oldest continually operational aeronautical club in the world.

Today the club stands to house, maintain, train, and entertain those who seek a bit of adventure beyond the glamorous lakeside hotels that dot the coastline of Como and its surrounding lakes.

Dozens of aquatic aircraft call the hangar home, and the surrounding mechanic shops are constantly in service keeping them in top nick.

Lake Como became a test ground for ambitious early aviators to put their designs to the test leading up to the First World War, and only increased thereafter.

While the club is members only, there are a few paths to enjoying the benefits of their heritage. Seaplanes are indeed available for private charter, short haul lake tours, and general events. As you can see from the photos, there is something rather special about the hangar itself. Where else can you see the seaplane from James Bond while you share a coffee with George Clooney (a frequent customer)?