A wide range of Austrian Air Force aircraft – fixed-wing and helicopters – were again represented in static and flying displays at AIRPOWER22, Europe’s largest air show.

Among the highlights were undoubtedly:

The “Vibes in the Sky” world premiere

The large flying display by the Austrian Armed Forces with nine Alouette-III helicopters, one Eurofighter, three PC-6s, and one AW 169M helicopter was a true artistic world premiere. All this display’s aircraft moved to a specially composed and arranged symphony by the well-known composer Tristan Schulze. About 100 military musicians recorded the piece. For the first time in this display, helicopters, as well as slow and fast aircraft, moved together in a choreography, playing parts of the “Vibes in the Sky” symphony with their engine and flight sounds. The display opened with a flight honouring all the Austrian federal states’ flags.

Eurofighter Typhoon solo display and intercept exercise with Lockheed C-130 Hercules

The Austrian Armed Forces’ Eurofighter is one of the world’s most advanced weapon systems. AIRPOWER22’s audience was treated to an impressive solo display by this airborne race car which demonstrated its power and performance combined with the skills of our pilots.

At the Royal International Air Tattoo 2022 in Fairford, UK, the Austrian Armed Forces team was awarded the RAFCTE Trophy for the best flight performance by a foreign participant: Two Eurofighters and a C-130 of the Austrian Air Force thereby demonstrated the simulation of an interception of an aircraft in front of the enthusiastic visitors. This award-winning display was also shown to the public at AIRPOWER22.

PC 7 & Diamond DA40 display

Pilots from Zeltweg’s flying school demonstrated their top training and skills to AIRPOWER22 spectators in an impressive display with their PC-7 Turbo Trainers and the Diamond DA40. Both aircraft types are used in Austria for basic and advanced training. Zeltweg’s flying school graduates learn to fly and control an aircraft safely and professionally in military environments on these two models.

Alouette III

Numerous missions which have saved many lives can be attributed to this reliable and robust helicopter. After more than 50 years in service, this model is now being decommissioned. Austria has signed a procurement contract for 18 Leonardo AW169M light multi-role helicopters to replace this proven helicopter type. The AW169M’s entry into service is scheduled for Q4 2022. The new system should be operational from 2023, replacing the matriarch of the skies, the Alouette III. The Alouette III dressed up in two fantastic special liveries for the public at AIRPOWER22.

The remaining aircraft which did not participate in flying, like the AB212, the OH58 Kiowa, and the Sikorsky S-70 Black Hawk, could be admired in the static display or were actively involved in the emergency response medical system.