Belgian Air Force Days 2023

Discussion relating to 2023 airshows/fly-ins/exercises/other events. Post news before the event and post your photos afterwards! Please create only one thread per event.

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Post by Flightline Uk » Tue May 23, 2023 7:23 am

Air force operations are often complex, and everything must run smoothly. This is perhaps even more crucial when the pride of the nation rests on your shoulders. In order to convey the most positive image possible, thorough professionalism and cooperation are necessary components for success.

That's why the team of the Patrouille de France, based at Salon-de-Provence in the South of France, consists of much more than pilots and mechanics. This team is supported by an entire organisation, including administration, logistics, its own flight safety team and even its own public relations office.

The Patrouille de France flies with eight Alpha Jet training aircraft, an aircraft that was also used in Belgium for the advanced flight training of fighter pilots until a few years ago. They are very popular guests all over the world thanks to their dynamic, swirling demonstration full of unique moments. During the first part, all aircraft fly aerobatic maneuvers in very tight formations, never leaving the view of the public. During the second part, the formation splits into several parts for breathtaking crossings and elegant breaks, always trailing patriotic blue-white-red smoke.

The team is celebrating its 70th birthday this year and we are delighted that they have included the Belgian Air Force Days in their busy 2023 anniversary tour. Don't miss their unique world class demonstration, which they will fly for you exclusively on Sunday 10 September at Kleine- Brogel!
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Post by Flightline Uk » Tue May 30, 2023 9:40 am

Aviation is not just a job, it's a passion. Small wonder then that many people are also passionate about it in their spare time! This certainly also applies to the volunteers of the Dutch "Koninklijke Luchtmacht Historische Vlucht", who will present two of their showpieces during the Belgian Air Force Days.

The Royal Netherlands Air Force Historical Flight is a foundation that calls Gilze-Rijen air force base in Dutch North Brabant home. Qualified volunteers work there to restore and preserve gems from Dutch aviation history. After all, this delicate work requires great expertise.

The first aircraft they bring to Kleine-Brogel is the North American B-25 Mitchell bomber, a medium-large twin-engined bomber from World War II that has served the Royal Netherlands Air Force for a long time, both in the Far East and here in Europe. A Dutch squadron that flew the B-25 within the British Royal Air Force was stationed in Melsbroek for a while during the liberation of Western Europe, so there is also a connection with Belgium.

The second aircraft that the KLu Historic Flight will present is also no stranger to Belgium, namely the Supermarine Spitfire. This legendary aircraft gained fame during the Second World War and was continuously developed in new variants to keep up with technological progress, from the Battle of Britain to the liberation in 1945. Countless Dutch and Belgian pilots who entered service with the RAF during the Second World War flew the Spitfire, and the type formed the backbone of air forces throughout Europe for a long time after the Second World War.

Come and discover this piece of aviation history yourself and share in the passion of the people at the Royal Netherlands Air Force Historic Flight during the Belgian Air Force Days 2023, on 9 and 10 September at Kleine-Brogel.
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Post by n33d4sp33d_85 » Tue Jun 20, 2023 2:34 am

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Post by Flightline Uk » Tue Jun 20, 2023 8:15 am

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Many people have their first flight experience aboard a large passenger aircraft. During the Belgian Air Force Days you can see such an aircraft in action.

Air Belgium is a fairly recent addition to the aviation world, but has made a name for itself since June 2018 with long-haul flights from both Brussels and Brussels South (Charleroi) Airport.

They operate regular scheduled, charter and cargo services to exotic destinations such as Mauritius, Guadeloupe, Curaçao and Martinique with the massive Airbus A330-900. This A330 NEO variant reduces fuel consumption and emissions compared to the previous generation aircraft, in an effort to make air transport more sustainable.

This successful Airbus product has two powerful engines and a large cabin equipped with all modern comforts. Air Belgium offers Economy, Premium and Business classes on board this air giant, which is more than 60 meters long and can weigh up to 250 tons. This way everyone can travel according to their own wishes and financial preference.

Recently, the Belgian government has also called on Air Belgium several times and chartered this giant to support royal missions. Admire this white giant above Kleine-Brogel and visit the Belgian Air Force Days on 9 & 10 September 2023. Tickets are available via www.belgianairforcedays.be
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Post by Flightline Uk » Mon Jun 26, 2023 9:11 am

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It goes without saying that the Belgian A-109 solo demonstration team “Razzle Blades” is one of the main stars at the Belgian Air Force Days. Captains Stijn Soenen and Jo Jacobs of 17th squadron at Beauvechain will proudly show off the maneuverability of their gorgeous Agusta A-109.

There is an interesting story behind the livery of the Razzle Blades. Nowadays, combat aircraft have a strong emphasis on stealth properties, where the enemy has difficulty observing the aircraft due to the use of special materials, shapes and suppression of the heat signature, for example. Nevertheless, never lose sight of the significant importance of an effective camouflage. The A-109's special colourful paint scheme is inspired by an old naval camouflage technique. Working with special painted shapes on the ship’s hull made it difficult for the enemy to determine the distance and direction of the ship, the so-called Razzle Dazzle camouflage, from which the Belgian Air Force's demo aircraft derives its name.

The Belgian A-109 helicopters entered service in 1992 and are now in the twilight of their operational career. The search for a suitable multipurpose successor is in full swing. Like the A-109, it must be able to operate in all weather conditions, be fast and maneuverable and be able to handle various tasks such as troop transport, medical evacuation and reconnaissance. That will be the helicopter that the 'new generation' will operate with.

In the meantime, enjoy the wonderful performance of the Razzle Blades team one final time, so be sure to visit the Belgian Air Force Days in Kleine-Brogel on 9 & 10 September 2023!
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Post by Flightline Uk » Tue Jun 27, 2023 8:01 am

Flying rescue missions is true teamwork. The heroic deeds of the helicopter crews appeal to everyone's imagination. During the demonstration of the W-3 Sokol of the Czech Air Force, the main role is clearly claimed by 2 crew members outside the cabin.

These Polish-built helicopters are used by the Czech Air Force for rescue missions in hard-to-reach areas and firefighting by the 243 squadron at Prague-Kbely and Plzen bases. This is where its speed and unexpected agility play a crucial role in achieving success. Add to that a crew with a touch of showmanship and you get an incredible demonstration of operational capabilities by this rare helicopter type in our part of the world. You'll hold your breath as the diver and medic swing beneath the helicopter as it speeds, twists and turns through the skies of Kleine-Brogel!

The W-3 is a medium-height helicopter that can also be armed for reconnaissance and observation missions. In some countries, this type is also used for ambulance and police tasks.

Don't miss this top helicopter demonstration and wonderful example of teamwork and visit the Belgian Air Force Days on 9 and 10 September 2023 at Kleine-Brogel. Teamwork will continue to be vital in the future. Tickets are available at www.belgianairforcedays.be . Join the new generation!
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Post by Flightline Uk » Tue Jul 04, 2023 9:54 am

The Belgian Air Force Days not only showcase the present, but also tie together the past and the future, and this is done par excellence by the renowned United States Air Force Heritage Flight.

As impressive as the USAF F-35 solo display is, the USAF Heritage Flight adds an extra dimension when a legendary Mustang joins the futuristic F-35 in the air for some unique formation passes, an iconic and emotional moment! One of the best-known fighters of World War II, the Mustang carried out numerous combat missions over Belgium and also operated from our country during liberation operations.

Every year, US Air Force demo teams and some selected warbird pilots come together to practise these unique performances to perfection to pay a fitting tribute to the US Air Force's historic achievements.

By performing the prestigious Heritage Flight during Belgian Air Force Days, the US Air Force underlines the close relationship between Belgium and the United States. Don’t miss this stunning event and come to Kleine-Brogel on 9 & 10 September 203! Join the new generation!
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