Bf 109 E‑3 “6‑130”: From a Forgotten Wreck to a Restoration Project in La Sénia
The February 2026 issue of Flugzeug Classic features an in‑depth article on the history and recovery of the Messerschmitt Bf 109 E‑3 “6‑130”, today under restoration at the Centre d’Aviació Històrica de La Sénia (CAHS).
Originally delivered to Spain in 1939 as part of the Legion Condor, the aircraft served with Jagdgruppe J/88 during the final phase of the Spanish Civil War. After the conflict, it continued its service with the Spanish Air Force until 7 December 1940, when pilot Eduardo Laucirica Charlén tragically crashed during an air display at El Prat, Barcelona.
The wreck remained buried in marshland for more than 60 years. In 2002, during the expansion of Barcelona–El Prat Airport, the remains of the aircraft were rediscovered and recovered, including major components such as the DB‑601 engine, landing gear, propeller hub and fuselage fragments. In 2006, the Spanish Air Force transferred the recovered parts to the town of La Sénia.
Since 2018, the CAHS has been working on the reconstruction of the aircraft as a full‑scale static exhibit. Phase 1—completing the fuselage, cockpit and tail section—was finished in 2024. Current efforts focus on the landing gear and the display of the original engine remains alongside the reconstructed airframe.
The project is carried out by volunteers and supported through donations, with the goal of preserving the aviation heritage of La Sénia and honoring the history of the aircraft and its pilots.
💛 Help us restore the 6-130! ✈️
✈️ Be part of history: Restoring the Messerschmitt Bf-109 E3 6-130
We’ve just launched a new video showcasing the incredible progress in the restoration of this iconic aircraft! The fuselage and cockpit are now fully reconstructed— a testament to our dedication to preserving aviation history. 🎥✨
But the mission is far from over. We need your support to acquire the engine mount and landing gear, essential components to move forward with this historical project.
Join us in bringing this legend back to life! 🚀
✈️ Join the challenge to restore the 6-130 — and make history! The Messerschmitt Bf-109 E3 6-130 is a key piece of aviation history, and we’re working to bring it back to life. To achieve this, we need your support.
🔧 Our goal: Raise funds to acquire the engine mount and landing gear, essential components to complete a faithful and high-quality restoration.
💛 Your help matters Our BBVA bank account: ES69 0182 1745 8202 0188 4468
📩 Want to be recognized for your contribution? Contact us: info@centredaviaciohistorica.es
🌍 Be part of this mission 🔗 Support us 🚀 Together, we’ll keep aviation memory alive. Join the legacy!
🚀 Together, we’ll keep aviation history alive. Join the journey!
Blackout Day: History Never Fades
On the day Spain plunged into darkness, the Centro de Aviación Histórica de La Sénia kept going. No lights, no electricity—just pure determination.
This was an extreme filming challenge with Drone OPS, right in the middle of a national blackout. Without spotlights or power, we adapted: using mobile phones and flashlights to illuminate each scene, capturing every shot under truly unique conditions.
Huge thanks to Drone OPS and pilot Tuckie for their incredible work in making this special recording possible. And an enormous shoutout to the CAHS team, who, armed with flashlights and dozens of phones, ensured that history shined brightly even in the dark.
Experience the magic of this shoot, where passion for aviation and historical memory burned brighter than ever.
Treasures of Spanish Aviation
Discover how we preserve the history of aviation, inspiring future generations to soar high with our exhibitions and projects.
What We Do?
In 2017, the Historical Aviation Centre of La Sénia (CAHS) was established near the historic Military Aviation Airfield of the Spanish Civil War in La Sénia. The center showcases historical aircraft such as the Polikarpov I-16, the Messerschmitt Bf 109, the Tupolev SB2, and the Hispano Aviación HA-220 Super-Saeta.
The center also features a flight simulator of the Heinkel HE-111B aircraft, allowing visitors to experience the sensation of piloting this iconic bomber.
The Historical Aviation Centre of La Sénia (CAHS) seeks to preserve and display historical military aviation artifacts and promote aeronautical culture.
NEW ADDITION! 🚀
The Fokker E.III joins the Collection at the Historical Aviation Center of La Sénia
The Historical Aviation Center of La Sénia is proud to announce the arrival of a faithful replica of the legendary Fokker E.III, a revolutionary aircraft that changed the course of military aviation history. Thanks to its innovative synchronization system, this model was the first to allow machine gun fire through the propeller, completely transforming aerial combat strategies.
Although only one original unit remains, preserved at the prestigious Science Museum in London, this replica offers us the opportunity to keep its legacy alive and revive its historical significance in aviation. The aircraft is currently undergoing meticulous restoration in our workshops to ensure its preservation and prepare it for future exhibition.
With this exciting new addition, we reaffirm our commitment to aeronautical heritage preservation and to offering visitors a unique and enriching experience. Explore the images of its arrival and restoration, and join us in this incredible mission of historical conservation!
📸 Rediscover its legacy with us—this aviation treasure awaits!
NEW ADDITION! 🚀
The Centre for Historic Aviation of La Sénia begins restoration of the C-212 Aviocar T.12B-40, with plans for its future conversion into a flight simulator
The Centre for Historic Aviation of La Sénia (CAHS) has recently received the CASA C-212 Aviocar T.12B-40 aircraft (registration 74-84), donated by the Spanish Air and Space Force, and has initiated a full restoration of the aircraft. This phase, led by CAHS’s technical team, aims to recover the Aviocar’s original structure and systems with the highest historical accuracy, as a preliminary step toward its future transformation into a fully functional flight simulator.
The project, promoted by the La Sénia Town Council in collaboration with SHYCEA, reinforces the centre’s commitment to the active preservation of Spain’s aeronautical heritage. Once restored, the Aviocar will join the successful Heinkel He 111 simulator, expanding CAHS’s educational and cultural offerings and further establishing La Sénia as a benchmark in museum innovation and technical outreach.
Exhibitions
Discover how we preserve aeronautical history with dedication and passion.
Unique Exhibitions
The center houses replicas and remnants of aircraft from the conflict, such as the Polikarpov I-16 ‘Mosca,’ the Tupolev SB, and the Messerschmitt Bf 109 E3, highlighting their historical significance.
Expert Restoration
Each aircraft is restored with precision and respect for its history.
Valuable Collaborations
We work with institutions to enrich our common heritage.
Ajuntament de La Sénia
SHYCEA-Servicio Histórica y Cultural del Ejercito del Aire
MNAC- Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya
Dynamic Education
We offer activities that inspire and educate about aviation.
Events and Activities for the Year 2025
Discover our upcoming events and activities, where you can connect with the community and enjoy unforgettable aeronautical experiences.
XIII Diada del Camp d’Aaviacio de La Sénia
May 31, 2025
The Day of the Diada del Camp d’Aviació de La Sénia is a special day dedicated to remembering and honoring the history of the aviation field during the Spanish Civil War. This event includes exhibitions of restored aircraft, guided tours of the Historical Aviation Center of La Sénia (CAHS), and educational activities for all ages. Through these activities, we strive to educate the public about the historical significance of the field and to foster interest in aviation culture.
Elevating the History of Aviation
Discover our featured projects, where innovation and expertise transform the aeronautical legacy.
Restoration of the Classic Aircraft
Policapov I16 «Mosca»
Known as “Mosca” in our country, this Soviet fighter aircraft was introduced in the 1930s and participated in the Spanish Civil War. It had a quite modern profile (monoplane, retractable landing gear) and was highly valued for its excellent aerodynamic performance.
Specifically, our replica corresponds to the I-16 Type 10. This replica began construction in 2002, using original blueprints and gathering as much information as possible through witnesses who were familiar with the aircraft. The materials used are either the same as those originally employed or as similar as possible. Additionally, some original parts, such as the propeller blades, have been incorporated. The construction of the entire aircraft was completed in 2010, after 8 years of work. It was given the identity CM-257 to honor Sergeant Pilot Josep Torras i Pujol, a young man who lost his life in the Battle of the Ebro, inviting reflection among visitors.
Aeronautical Art Exhibition
Aeronautical Art
Bomber
Tupolev SB «Katiusca»
This Soviet twin-engine bomber aircraft was very fast and tested during the Spanish Civil War.
The replica displayed in our center was created in 2012, posing a significant challenge for the people involved in its construction due to the lack of information in the few manuals available with blueprints of the Tupolev. Additionally, it is noteworthy that there are only two examples of this aircraft in the world, one being ours and the other exhibited at the Russian Air Force Museum in Monino, near Moscow.
This aircraft is of great interest and of immense value to our Aviation Center and, of course, to the entire heritage linked to the La Sénia Airfield.
Restoration
Super Saeta HA-220
The Super Saeta HA-220 is a fighter-bomber aircraft, an evolution of the HA-200 Saeta from the 1960s, manufactured by the Spanish company Hispano Aviación S.A. with designs from the team of German engineer Wilhelm Messerschmitt.
The first flight of the Saeta took place in 1956, making it the first jet aircraft built by the Spanish aeronautical industry.
The piece exhibited at the CAHS has been on loan from the Fundació Parc Aeronàutic de Catalunya since 2015.
In our Center, it has been restored and is regaining its identity as 214-92, its original designation when it left the factory as the 2nd unit.
Currently, the aircraft is fully integrated into our center, being one of the original pieces that showcase the evolution of modern aeronautics.
The Bf 109E3 6 130 Flying Over La Sénia
By Carlos Alonso
Images of Events and Activities at Our Center
In this section, you will find a selection of photos capturing memorable moments from previous events.
Informative Talks!!
Reconstruction of Aerial Relics
Messerschmitt Bf 109E3 6-130
At the Historical Aviation Center of La Sénia (CAHS), we are working on the reconstruction of this historic aircraft to offer a window into the past.
Messerschmitt Bf 109
The Messerschmitt Bf 109 was a German fighter aircraft used during the Spanish Civil War and World War II. It was designed by a team under the direction of Wilhelm Willy Emil Messerschmitt in the early 1930s, when he was the chief designer at Bayerische Flugzeugwerke (hence its prefix “Bf”). It was one of the first truly modern fighters of its time, featuring a fully metal monocoque construction, an enclosed cockpit, and retractable landing gear.
History of the Messerschmitt Bf-109 6-130
In 1938, the E series was introduced, equipped with the new Daimler-Benz DB 601 engine, becoming the first Bf 109 produced in large quantities. The Bf 109 E-3, registration 6-130 (Werknummer 880), was built in 1938 by Erla-Maschinenwerk GmbH in Leipzig under license. It is one of approximately forty E series units sent to Spain in early 1939 and used by the Condor Legion in the final weeks of the Spanish Civil War.
Stationed at the La Sénia airfield, it was piloted by Major Walter Grabmann, commander of Jagdgruppe 88, who flew 143 missions and shot down six Republican aircraft (two Polikarpov I-15s, two I-16s, and two Tupolev SB-2 bombers).
Current Status of the Recovery Project
For 2025, we will address the recovery and assembly of the landing gear. Additionally, we need to acquire a mounting frame and a DB601 model engine. We have the original DB601 engine from the aircraft, but due to its condition (split into two sections), it is not suitable for installation in the new aircraft. However, the engine has great historical value and is well-preserved for display. We also have the variable pitch hub, to which three reproduction blades have been assembled. Once we have the engine, this hub with the three blades will be mounted.
FLIGHT SIMULATOR
This simulator represents the cockpit of a Heinkel HE 111, built and adapted with the intention of enhancing the educational aspect of the space and making the visit more experiential. Our visitors can feel the sensation of piloting an aircraft of this nature.
The flight simulator recreates the flight from inside the cockpit, with all the flight controls and systems being operable.
Future Simulator Project
To enhance realism, we aim to develop a new simulator based on a real aircraft. Objective: Develop a flight simulator using parts of the cockpit and fuselage of the T12 Aviocar C212 transport aircraft, in collaboration with the Spanish Air Force and SHYCEA (Historical and Cultural Service of the Spanish Air Force).
Testimonials
Well, on Saturday I made one of my annual visits to the Historical Aviation Museum of La Sénia, Tarragona, which exists thanks to ONE person: José Ramón Bellaubí. This gentleman one day decided that the aviation field built by the Republic and later used by the Germans of the Condor Legion (Guernica and others) had to be recovered. He also thought it would be a good idea to have a museum, and since it’s not easy to go around buying period aircraft like buying candies, he decided to build them himself at a 1:1 scale. Quite a feat, isn’t it? Thanks to him, I was able to carry out my project “Aeronautics (Flight) Interior” at the MNAC a few years ago. After building a Mosca fighter and a Katiuska bomber, he turned his attention to the other side to build a German Messerschmitt Bf 109 like those Franco had during the war. This legendary and one of the most famous WWII aircraft was first operationally deployed in Spain during the civil war. This one is built from one that crashed at the Prat airport in Barcelona in the 1940s. The project progresses steadily and surely.
Fransesc Torres
Velázquez Prize for Plastic Arts 2024
(One of the most important distinctions in the field of visual arts in Spain)
An interdisciplinary artist and a leading figure in conceptual art, recognized for his work in sculpture, installation, video art, and photography.
Restoration of Vintage Aircraft
40.630987, 0.292390
Carretera Santa Bàrbara, Km. 21, 43560 La Sénia, Tarragona
+34-619-603536
bellaubi@gmail.com
Our team
Each member brings a unique combination of skills and experience that allows us to effectively tackle challenges and successfully achieve our goals.
Guided Tours of the Airfield
Discover the History: Our guided tours offer an in-depth look into the history of this heritage site. Through research efforts and guided tours, we aim to convey the historical memory lived in this town during a tumultuous period, inviting reflection and appealing to everyone’s responsibility to prevent similar events from happening again.
Duration of the Tour: Approximately 2 hours.
Price: €5 per person – Free for children up to 10 years old (inquire about pricing for organized groups).
The Price Includes: Explanations in the various spaces that make up the heritage site of the La Sénia Airfield, including entries to the museum of the “Casa de Comandament”, the air-raid shelter, and the Historical Aviation Center.
More Information and Reservations:
La Sénia Tourism Office Phone Numbers: 977 713 000 / 977 576 156 / 653 937 204 Email: turisme@lasenia.cat
Aeronàutica [Vol] Interior
Contribution: The Historical Aviation Center of La Sénia (CAHS) had the honor of collaborating on the artistic installation “Aeronàutica [Vol] Interior” created by Francesc Torres.
This work was exhibited at the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC).
Details:
Artist: Francesc Torres is a renowned Catalan conceptual artist, awarded the Velázquez Prize for Plastic Arts 2024. His work is characterized by exploring themes such as war, memory, and identity.
Installation: The work “Aeronàutica [Vol] Interior” included 1:1 scale replicas of Soviet aircraft that participated in the Spanish Civil War. These replicas allowed visitors to closely experience the magnitude and historical significance of these aircraft.
Objective: The installation aimed to reflect on the impact of aviation in armed conflicts and its role in the history of the Spanish Civil War. Through the recreation of these aircraft, Francesc Torres sought to create a connection between the past and the present, inviting viewers to reflect on memory and history.
Impact: This collaboration highlighted the importance of preserving and remembering the history of military aviation and allowed the CAHS to connect with a broader audience through contemporary art. The installation was well received and contributed to the dissemination of aeronautical culture and historical memory.
Explore Our Impressive Gallery.
This section showcases stunning images that highlight the beauty and technology of our aircraft..
This section highlights images showcasing our projects in progress.
