After only a 24-month break, the Airpower air show is back in Zeltweg, Styria. Up to 300,000 visitors are expected on Friday and Saturday. The Federal Army proudly presents itself, there are world premieres – and a stricter security concept.
Airpower normally takes place every three years. This has now been broken and after 2022 there will be another air show at Hinterstoisser air base. A villain that makes a connection with the upcoming federal and state elections. For the up to 150,000 visitors per day it makes no difference – with free admission.
From 09:00 to around 17:30, you can expect a busy flight program. Highlights include performances by international aerobatic teams: this year, the Patrulla Águila from Spain and the Patrouille Suisse will be visiting, among others. The Swiss may be seen in Austria for the last time; the F-5 fleet will be retired in 2027.
Federal army shows new device
In addition, as always, there are the historical aircraft rarities of the “Flying Bulls” and the most modern fifth-generation jet fighters, such as the American F-35 Lightning II. Of course, the Federal Army, as the main organizer, will also demonstrate its flying skills – and with new equipment, for example with the multi-purpose helicopter AW-169 “Lion”. The new C-390 transport aircraft can be inspected on the ground. There are also flight demonstrations of possible successors to the Saab 105, including the favorite M-346. There is also a separate show about the planned European air defense system “Sky Shield”.
Premieres: From Argonauts to E-Fuel Duell
But there are also premieres on the program. This is how the Argonauts end both days: 25 aircraft of the Federal Army show – accompanied by music composed by Tristan Schulze – a demonstration based on the famous Greek legend. Soldiers and special vehicles of the land forces, lots of fireworks and special effects are not to be missed.
On Saturday (around 2:15 p.m.) there will be an aviation greeting from the newest member of the Austrian Airlines fleet: a Boeing Dreamliner (B787-9) will demonstrate, among other things, a high-speed flyover followed by a tight turn maneuver.
A premiere is a duel under the flag of virtually climate-neutral e-fuels: on the ground, Leopold Prinz von Bayern, ex-DTM driver, drives his historic BMW 3.0 CSL (“Batmobile”) from 1971, which is powered by Matthias Dolderer, world champion in the Red Bull Air Race, competed against him with a Swift Temco (born 1947).
Every visitor is checked
The issue of security is very important. The Federal Army emphasizes that there is no concrete evidence of a threat. At the 250 entrance gates, every visitor is checked – not by external security personnel, but by militiamen from Vienna and Burgenland.
It goes without saying that knives, ammunition, pepper spray and all aircraft such as drones are prohibited. But sun loungers and parasols are also not allowed. The same applies to glass bottles, bicycles and handcarts. Pets are also taboo! What you should definitely have with you is hearing protection; this is especially recommended for children.
Biggest exercise of the year
The Federal Army is ready for two intensive days in Zeltweg: together with the “Protective Shield” in June, the Airpower is the biggest exercise of the year and at the same time a real mission. “There is no possibility to practice again, no mistakes are allowed,” says Major General Gerfried Promberger, who is ultimately responsible for the air show.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
