The new ElbAir service and visitor centre was officially opened in Hamburg-Finkenwerder on 19 May. The architecturally striking building, which is located directly at the east gate of the Airbus plant, was inaugurated in the presence of Hamburg's First Mayor Peter Tschentscher and District Head Ralf Neubauer.
ElbAir, designed by architects Prasch Buken Partner, is characterised by its open and communicative design, which is reminiscent of an aircraft turbine. Covering an area of over 20,000 square metres, the centre combines various uses:
- Airbus Welcome Centre: A new focal point for visitors, which is expected to welcome up to 120,000 guests a year
- Globetrotter Erlebnis GmbH: Responsible for organising factory tours, also operates an Airbus shop and a travel agency on site.
- YOURcockpit: Offers flight enthusiasts the opportunity to experience flying in realistic simulators of the Airbus A320 and the H135 helicopter.
- Moxy Hotel by Marriott: A 135-room hotel offering accommodation for both tourists and business travellers.
- Retail and catering: A REWE supermarket, the Schrader bakery, the Ciao Bella restaurant and other service providers such as the Techniker Krankenkasse health insurance company complete the offer.
Special attention was paid during development paid to its sustainability aspects. The building fulfils the KfW 55 standard and completely dispenses with fossil fuels. Instead, heat pumps that utilise the ground and ambient air provide heating and cooling. A photovoltaic system supplies the required electricity, while a solar thermal system ensures the hot water supply. The façade is made of recyclable aluminium composite panels.
The opening of ElbAir marks a significant step in the connection between industry, the neighbourhood and sustainability. It not only serves as a new flagship for Airbus, but also as a meeting place for the residents of Finkenwerder and visitors from all over the world.