Prešov to Host Slovakia’s First SIAD Airshow in September 2025
For the first time in its history, eastern Slovakia will host a major international airshow. On 6–7 September 2025, the Prešov Air Base, home of the Slovak Air Force’s helicopter wing, will stage the debut edition of SIAD 2025, a new open-air aviation festival with free entry for the public.
Organised by Aeroklub Košice in partnership with the Ministry of Defence of the Slovak Republic and the Armed Forces of the Slovak Republic, the event promises a blend of modern frontline jets, heavy-lift helicopters, and rare historic warbirds, making it one of the most ambitious aviation gatherings in the region.
Hungarian Gripen / Airpower Zeltweg 2022
Slovak Air Force in the Spotlight
The host nation will showcase its full inventory, headlined by the F-16 Block 70 Fighting Falcon, which will make its public airshow debut after delivery earlier this year. Audiences will also see a solo display by the UH-60M Black Hawk utility helicopter, a rare flying demonstration of the Mil Mi-17 Hip, and tactical routines from both the C-27J Spartan transport and the L-39 Albatros trainer.
International Participation
Slovakia’s neighbours and partners are adding star power to the flying program. The Hungarian Air Force will send a JAS-39C Gripen for a solo fast-jet display, while the Spanish Army contributes its EC-665 Tiger HAD/E attack helicopter, performing a dynamic routine of pedal turns and simulated attack manoeuvres.
From Poland come several unique additions: the Fundacja Biało-Czerwone Skrzydła will fly a rare two-ship of TS-11 Iskra trainers; Fundacja Eskadra/FUBAR Aviation will present a pair of Cold War classics, a Lim-2 (MiG-15bis) and a two-seat SBLim-2 (MiG-15UTI); and historic types such as the North American T-6 Harvard, Yak-3 fighter, and UH-1 “Huey” helicopter will appear alongside a Bo-105 presented by Heli Solutions Poland. Unlike Red Bull’s famous aerobatic Bo-105 routines, this example will demonstrate an exciting low-level display full of sharp turns, quick climbs, and agility-focused manoeuvres to highlight the helicopter’s handling.
The aerobatic program will also include solo displays by Hungary’s Gyula Vári in the Yak-55 and Czech pilot Ján Sobotka in the Su-29, while the Retro Sky Box team will bring a formation of Zlín Z-226/326/526 trainers with a Yak-55 weaving around them. The Slovak Retro Sky Team will add drama with pyrotechnics and themed flying displays.
Static Line-Up
On the ground, the static park will give enthusiasts close access to an impressive range of aircraft. Highlights include the Spanish Army NH90 TTH, the Czech Air Force UH-1Y Venom, Poland’s PZL-M28 Skytruck, and Hungary’s brand-new Airbus H225M multirole helicopter. The Slovak Air Force will contribute examples of its UH-60M Black Hawk, Mi-17, and L-410 Turbolet, while Air Transport Europe will present its Bell 429 GlobalRanger emergency medical helicopter. Locally built light aircraft such as the Skyper GT-9 and SD-4 Viper will round out the domestic display, alongside club aircraft from Aeroklub Košice and Prešov.
Beyond the Aircraft
Visitors can also expect parachutist jumps, military technology demonstrations, folklore performances, amusement rides, flights in the Huey, and children’s activities. For aviation photographers, a dedicated spotter program will offer enhanced access, with registration closing on 25 August 2025 (Today!).
Practical Details
On Saturday, 6 September, gates open at 11:00 with flying displays from 12:30 to 20:30. On Sunday, 7 September, the program runs 10:00 to 16:30, with gates opening at 09:00. Parking will be available north of the airfield near Kapušany, while public transport frequency will be increased to serve the site, including shuttle buses to the gate.
With its debut, SIAD 2025 is set to put Prešov firmly on Europe’s airshow map. Combining the latest combat aircraft with heritage machines from Poland, Hungary, Spain and the Czech Republic, the event offers both a showcase of Slovakia’s defence capabilities and a celebration of aviation history. Organisers hope this first edition will mark the beginning of a tradition that returns to Prešov for years to come.
For up-to-date program details and spotter registration, visit www.airshowsiad.sk
