Airpower confirmed to return in 2027: what we know so far — and why it matters
After eleven past editions, the Airpower air show will take place again in 2027. The long-awaited confirmation was issued in a press release by the Austrian Federal Army, ending months of speculation about whether Europe’s largest air event would be staged after the successful 2024 edition in Zeltweg.
The speculation has come to an end: Airpower, jointly organised by the Federal Army, Red Bull, and the Province of Styria, will once again transform the Hinterstoisser Air Base in Zeltweg, located in the Styrian Aichfeld, into a hub of aviation. The last edition, held in early September 2024, attracted around 250,000 visitors, underscoring the event’s unique status in Europe’s aviation calendar. According to Air Force Commander Major General Gerfried Promberger, the decision to fix the next edition for 2027 was driven both by cost evaluations and the upcoming runway renovation at Zeltweg.
Mixed Flying Bulls Formation / Airpower 2024
A giant of European airshows
With over two decades of history, Airpower has become a benchmark event for aviation fans and professionals alike. Recent editions have drawn between ~185,000 and 300,000 people across its two days, enjoying everything from fast jets and transport aircraft to aerobatic teams and heritage warbirds. For Austria, the show is not just entertainment but also a showcase of military capabilities and a boost to regional tourism, with hotels, restaurants, and transport hubs in Styria experiencing record demand during show weekends.
The 2024 edition highlighted the event’s scale: more than 200 aircraft from up to 20 nations filled the skies, while over 6,500 staff—including thousands of soldiers—ensured operations, safety, and logistics. Red Bull’s Flying Bulls collection added glamour with rare aircraft displays, complementing the Austrian Air Force’s Eurofighter Typhoons, Hercules transports, and Black Hawk helicopters.
Why wait until 2027?
Organisers initially weighed a 2026 edition but decided on 2027 for two key reasons:
Budget consolidation. The Ministry of Defence is reviewing all events and communications spending. Holding Airpower in 2027, rather than 2026, allows the Armed Forces to contribute to fiscal goals without cutting back on troop equipment or procurement.
Infrastructure renewal. According to the Armed Forces, the runway at Zeltweg’s Hinterstoisser Air Base must be renovated, and this work needs to be completed before the next edition of the show.
The estimated costs of staging Airpower are significant. In 2024, the event cost €4.2 million, shared equally among the three organising partners: the Armed Forces, Styria, and Red Bull. Officials stress that these investments pay off, with the economic impact in the region exceeding the outlay many times over.
Planning for 2027 is already underway
According to Major General Promberger, the planning contract for Airpower 2027 has already been issued, and teams are working to ensure necessary renovations and preparations are carried out swiftly. Further details—including the exact date and initial program information—will be released in the coming months. When it takes place, Airpower 2027 will mark the twelfth edition of the event, reinforcing its continuity and importance in Austria’s cultural and military life.
Looking ahead
If past editions are a guide, Airpower 2027 will again bring together international military teams, aerobatic legends, and heritage displays, creating two days of aviation enthusiasm unmatched elsewhere in Europe. Its mix of free public access, large-scale participation, and unique Alpine setting ensures that, once again, hundreds of thousands of spectators will be looking skyward over Zeltweg in 2027.
