EMPOA AGM 2026 – „Smoke on“ in Bamberg

What a fantastic weekend!

From 8–10 May 2026, EMPOA members and friends gathered in Franconia for this year’s Annual General Meeting – and Bamberg proved to be the perfect host for an unforgettable event full of aviation spirit, friendship, culture and excellent food.

AGM group and historic bus

Arrival in Herzogenaurach

The weekend began on Friday afternoon with arrivals at Herzogenaurach airfield (EDQH). Crews from across Europe touched down under beautiful spring weather and were welcomed with “after-landing beer” and Franconian snacks – a perfect start after the flights in.

Soon afterwards, the group boarded the historic bus to Bamberg, where coffee and cake were waiting at the hotel before the official AGM took place. While the meeting was underway, many accompanying partners used the opportunity to explore Bamberg’s beautiful old town, only a short walk from the hotel.

The evening concluded with a relaxed dinner at the hotel restaurant and plenty of catching up among old and new friends.

Discovering Bamberg and Franconia

Saturday started with the entertaining city tour “Bamberg – Fact or Fiction?”, offered in both German and English. Between medieval streets, hidden corners and fascinating stories, participants discovered why Bamberg is considered one of Germany’s most beautiful cities.

Afterwards, a historic bus took the group to the famous Mainschleife wine region. A traditional wagon ride through the countryside, accompanied by regional food and wine tasting, gave everyone the chance to experience Franconian hospitality at its best.

“Heading East” and “Smoke on”

The highlight of the weekend followed in the evening at the legendary Schlenkerla brewery tavern.

Tina and Gunter Haug inspired the audience with their presentation “Heading East – Around the World in a Mooney”, sharing unforgettable moments and experiences from their round-the-world journey. Their stories perfectly reflected the adventurous spirit that makes the Mooney community so unique.

After the presentation, members enjoyed dinner together at Schlenkerla – naturally including Bamberg’s famous smoked beer for those brave enough to embrace the full “Smoke on” experience.

Thank You!

On Sunday morning, the group returned to Herzogenaurach for departures home.

A big thank you goes to everyone who helped organize and support this year’s AGM, and to all participants who made the weekend such a warm, friendly and memorable event.

We are already looking forward to seeing everyone again next year!

Photos

And now, enjoy the photo gallery!