The Festival Letectva Piestany 2025, held on June 14-15, 2025, at Piestany Airport, Slovakia, marked a triumphant highlight in the European airshow calendar. As Slovakia’s largest aviation event of the year, it drew an impressive crowd of aviation professionals, enthusiasts, and casual spectators alike, cementing its status as a must-attend occasion for those passionate about flight. Hosted at the historic Piestany Airport, the festival showcased an extraordinary array of aircraft, ranging from vintage warbirds to modern military machines, alongside breathtaking aerobatic displays that thrilled attendees over two sun-soaked days.

This airshow was more than just a display of aviation prowess; it was a celebration of Slovakia’s rich aeronautical heritage and its growing prominence in the European aviation community. With perfect weather amplifying the experience, the event offered a unique opportunity to witness rare aircraft in action, explore detailed static displays, and enjoy performances by some of the world’s most skilled pilots.

Piestany Airport (ICAO: LZPP), nestled in the scenic Váh River valley, provided an ideal backdrop for the airshow. With its 2,000-meter runway and expansive apron, the venue accommodated a diverse lineup of aircraft and facilitated seamless operations for both static and flying displays. The airport’s history as a military and civilian airfield added a layer of authenticity to the event, resonating with attendees who appreciate its legacy. The weather, a critical factor for any airshow, was nothing short of spectacular—sunny and hot from morning until late evening on both days. Temperatures soared into the high 20s Celsius, with clear skies offering perfect visibility for spectators and pilots alike. This exceptional weather, while a boon for flying conditions, contributed to a significantly larger turnout than anticipated, pushing the event’s logistical limits but enhancing its vibrant atmosphere.

The larger-than-expected crowd—likely drawn by the promise of uninterrupted sunshine—did, however, expose some organisational growing pains. Insufficient capacity at refreshment stands led to long queues, with attendees often waiting in the heat for hydration and sustenance. The food zone, positioned far from the main spectator area, compounded the inconvenience, requiring lengthy treks that detracted from the viewing experience. These challenges, while notable, are understandable given the unexpected attendance surge and are issues the organisers are almost certain to address for future editions. Overall, the weather’s brilliance amplified the festival’s success, ensuring that the aircraft performances—both in the air and on the ground—shone as brightly as the Slovak sun.

The static displays at Festival Letectva Piešťany 2025 were a highlight, offering a tangible connection to the aircraft that define aviation’s evolution. Among them was the Estonian-based Blueagles Aero L-39C Albatros, a sleek Czechoslovakian jet trainer renowned for its agility and versatility. Developed by Aero Vodochody in the late 1960s, the L-39 has been a mainstay in military training and aerobatic circles, its distinctive delta tail and compact design making it a favourite among pilots and spectators alike. Nearby, the Boeing 737-300F from Ukrainian Constanta Airlines stood as a symbol of commercial aviation’s adaptability. Converted from a passenger airliner to a freighter, this aircraft reflects Constanta’s role as a key player in Eastern European cargo operations, its robust airframe suited for demanding logistics missions.

The Antonov An-2, a Soviet-era biplane, brought a touch of rugged nostalgia to the lineup. Known as the “Colt,” this single-engine workhorse, designed in 1946, is celebrated for its exceptional short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities, earning it a lasting place in agricultural, utility, and military roles worldwide. In contrast, the Viper SD-4 RTC, a modern Slovakian light sport aircraft (LSA), showcased advancements in general aviation. Produced by Tomark Aero, the SD-4’s all-metal construction and efficient Rotax engine make it a popular choice for flight training and recreational flying. The Socata TB20 Trinidad, a French-built touring aircraft, added elegance to the display, its retractable gear and spacious cabin appealing to private pilots seeking performance and comfort since its introduction in the 1980s.

Military aviation was well-represented by the Slovak Air Force’s 1st Wing at Prešov Air Base with the Mil Mi-17 Hip in the beautiful digital camouflage and the LET L-410 UPV-E20 from the 46th Wing at Malacky Air Base. The Mi-17, a Soviet-designed medium transport helicopter, serves as a backbone for Slovakia’s rotary-wing operations, supporting troop transport, search and rescue, and disaster relief missions. The 51st Wing, based in Prešov, maintains a critical role in national defence and emergency response. The L-410, a twin-engine turboprop developed by Let Kunovice, is a versatile transport aircraft used by the 46th Wing for paratrooper training, cargo delivery, and medical evacuation; its STOL capabilities are ideal for Slovakia’s varied terrain. Dominating the static lineup was the colossal Antonov An-12 from CAVOK, a Ukrainian cargo airline. This four-engine turboprop, dwarfing its neighbours with its cavernous cargo hold and 33-meter wingspan, exemplifies heavy-lift capability, its presence underscoring CAVOK’s expertise in transporting oversized loads across challenging regions.

The flying displays were the centrepiece of Festival Letectva Piestany 2025, delivering a breathtaking mix of historical reverence, modern precision, and aerobatic artistry. Each performance was meticulously executed, showcasing the skill of the pilots and the capabilities of their aircraft.

The Bücker Bü 131 Jungmann, flown by Jan Rudzinskyj, offered a graceful aerobatic display that transported spectators back to the golden age of aviation. This German biplane, introduced in 1934, was a primary trainer for the Luftwaffe during World War II, its lightweight wooden construction and responsive handling making it ideal for teaching basic aerobatics. Rudzinskyj’s performance featured elegant loops, rolls, and a signature “NO HANDS” stunt, paying homage to legendary pilots like Miro Slovák and Bevo Howard. The Jungmann’s fabric-covered wings and open cockpit evoked a bygone era, while its agility underscored its enduring appeal in airshows worldwide.

Rudzinskyj, a multifaceted aviation figure, brought a wealth of experience to the display. A pilot, author, and airshow organiser, he is also a key member of the Czech Flying Bulls Aerobatic Team, known for their precision and flair. His connection to the Jungmann is fitting, given its historical role in training pilots like him who excel in both technical skill and showmanship. The aircraft’s gentle hum and Rudzinskyj’s masterful control captivated the audience, blending nostalgia with a demonstration of timeless aerobatic finesse.

The Zlín Z142 from JetsFly.sk, piloted by Jozef Pivarci Jr, delivered a dynamic aerobatic performance that pushed the aircraft’s capabilities to the forefront. Developed by Moravan Otrokovice in Czechoslovakia during the late 1970s, the Z142 is a two-seat trainer known for its robust airframe and aerobatic potential, powered by a reliable Lycoming engine. Pivarci Jr.’s display included loops, rolls, and steep climbs, showcasing the Z142’s agility despite its primary role as a training platform.

A rare gem, the Lisunov Li-2 from the Hungarian Goldtimer Foundation, enchanted the crowd with its majestic flypasts and the beautiful rumble of its twin radial engines. The Li-2, a Soviet license-built version of the Douglas DC-3, was produced in the thousands during and after World War II, serving as a transport and paratrooper aircraft. The specific example, HA-LIX, is the world’s only airworthy Li-2, manufactured in 1949 in Tashkent. It served in the Hungarian Air Force before transitioning to civilian roles with MALÉV and later as a paratrooper trainer until 1974. Preserved in a museum thereafter, the Goldtimer Foundation restored it to flight in the late 1990s, a labour of love that has kept this historical artefact aloft.

The display was a slow, graceful affair, allowing spectators to appreciate the Li-2’s vintage design—its corrugated skin, rounded nose, and broad wingspan echoing the DC-3’s iconic silhouette. The Goldtimer Foundation’s commitment to preserving aviation heritage shone through, with HA-LIX’s low passes offering a visceral connection to the past. The deep, resonant sound of its Shvetsov ASh-62 engines filled the air, a testament to the engineering of a bygone era and a highlight of the festival’s historical offerings.

The Antonov An-26 from Ukrainian Vulkan Air provided a rare and poignant display, its presence a remarkable feat given Ukraine’s ongoing conflict. This twin-engine turboprop, designed in the 1960s as a military transport, is known for its versatility and ruggedness, capable of operating from unprepared airstrips. The festival’s inclusion of Ukrainian pilots performing amidst wartime challenges underscored the resilience of the nation’s aviation community, and this might have been the only An-26 display in Europe in 2025—a significant coup for Piestany.

The performance consisted of several flypasts, the aircraft’s old Soviet engines—Ivchenko AI-24s—producing an unmistakable rumble that captivated the audience. Vulkan Air, a Ukrainian cargo operator, maintains a fleet of Soviet-era aircraft, leveraging their durability for diverse missions. The An-26’s utilitarian design, with its high wings and rear loading ramp, was on full display, offering a stark contrast to the aerobatic performers. Its rarity and the context of its appearance made this a memorable moment, blending aviation spectacle with a subtle nod to global events.

The MiG-15 UTI from Czech Flying Legends brought Cold War nostalgia to the skies with a relatively high-flying demonstration. This two-seat trainer variant of the Soviet MiG-15, license-built in Czechoslovakia by Aero Vodochody in 1955 as CS-102 (serial number 242266), boasts a storied history. Powered initially by an RD-45 engine and later upgraded to a VK-1, it flew its first test flight on 22 April 1955, piloted by Vlastimil David and Antonín Bartoš. Exported to Poland on 17 June 1955, it served the Polish Air Force at 61 LPSzB in Biała Podlaska until 1990, training notable pilots like Poland’s first astronaut, Mirosław Hermaszewski. After military service, it was stored, sold to American businessman Tom Smith in 1994, and registered as N-41125 in California, where it appeared at airshows and the Estrella Warbird Museum. In 2013, Czech Flying Legends repatriated it to the Czech Republic, adorning it with a tiger-striped tail and the number 2514, honouring a MiG-15 UTI from Hradec Králové.

The display, while offering limited photo opportunities due to its altitude, showcased the jet’s sleek lines and historical significance. Its camouflage in Czech colours and Ostrava city emblem added visual flair, though the performance was more subdued than others, it still highlighted its jet-age pedigree. For enthusiasts, the MiG-15 UTI’s journey—from Cold War service to international airshows—added depth to its presence at Piestany.

The Antonov An-32P from Ukrainian Aircompany Constanta delivered one of the festival’s most visually striking displays, its rarity mirroring that of the An-26. A firefighting variant of the An-32, this twin-engine turboprop, designed in the 1970s, excels in high-altitude and hot environments, thanks to its powerful Ivchenko AI-20 engines. The participation of Ukrainian pilots during wartime made this, alongside the An-26, an exceptionally rare double feature for Piestany, showcasing Ukraine’s aviation resilience.

The display featured a spectacular water drop, simulating a firefighting mission, followed by low passes that emphasised the aircraft’s agility and robust construction. Aircompany Constanta, a Ukrainian operator specialising in cargo and charter services, leverages the An-32’s versatility for diverse missions. The sight of water cascading from its two 4000 litres conformal tanks and the roar of its engines left a lasting impression, blending operational utility with airshow drama in a performance that stood out for its uniqueness and execution.

The Parade of Slovak Air Force and Government Aircraft was a proud showcase of national aviation assets, beginning with two Sikorsky UH-60M Black Hawks from the 51st Wing at Prešov Air Base. Acquired in recent years, these modern utility helicopters enhance Slovakia’s capabilities in troop transport, search and rescue, and disaster relief, their advanced avionics and twin GE T700 engines marking a significant upgrade. Next, the C-27J Spartan from the 46th Wing at Malacky Air Base performed a flypast, its twin Rolls-Royce AE2100 engines powering this tactical transport since its introduction to the Slovak Air Force in 2017. The C-27J excels in STOL operations, supporting troop and cargo missions.

The anticipated flypast of the new F-16V Fighting Falcon was cancelled due to technical issues, a disappointment as it was slated to be the aircraft’s public debut in Slovak service. The parade continued with the Slovak Government Flying Service’s Airbus A319 and Fokker 100 in formation. The A319, a VIP transport since 2008, executed a spectacular touch-and-go, while the Fokker 100, operational since 1992, performed a missed approach and low pass in landing configuration, showcasing their roles in government transport. Closing the parade, a parachute drop from a Black Hawk, one of which carried a huge Slovak flag, symbolising national pride and military-civilian unity.

The Baltic Bees Jet Team, with their four Aero L-39C Albatros aircraft, delivered a perfect and precise display of jet aerobatics. The L-39, a Czechoslovakian trainer from the 1970s, is prized for its agility and Ivchenko AI-25 engine, making it a staple for teams like the Baltic Bees, formed in 2008 in Latvia. The team faced setbacks during the COVID-19 pandemic, with their aircraft stranded in China, limiting them to solo, two-ship, and three-ship displays post-restrictions. 2025 marked a resurgence, with a four-ship performance at Piestany.

Their display featured tight formations, synchronised loops, and dynamic breaks, the jets’ sleek profiles cutting through the sky with precision. The Baltic Bees’ recovery from adversity and their polished execution reaffirmed their status as a top European civilian jet aerobatic team, their vibrant yellow-and-blue livery adding a splash of colour to the festival’s lineup.

A duo of Aero L-29 Delfins, one from Slovakian Jets Fly and one from the Hungarian Komo-Sky Team, performed formation flypasts, their beautiful engine whine—courtesy of the Motorlet M-701—resonating across the airfield. The L-29, a 1960s Czechoslovakian jet trainer, was the first jet designed entirely in Czechoslovakia, serving Warsaw Pact air forces extensively. After the formation passes, the Slovakian L-29, piloted by Generálmajor V.V. Ing. Jozef Pivarci, broke away for a solo display, showcasing loops and rolls with finesse.

Originally planned as a four-ship formation with Czech and Danish examples, the absence of the latter two did not diminish the impact. The L-29’s historical role training generations of pilots added gravitas, while Pivarci’s solo performance highlighted its aerobatic potential, making this a compelling tribute to Eastern Bloc aviation heritage.

The North American P-51D Mustang "Excalibur", flown by Miroslav Sázavský, was a festival favourite, its dynamic display and characteristic whistling sound thrilling the crowd. Built in 1945 in Dallas, this P-51D served the U.S. Army until 1963, later transitioning to civilian ownership under Mr. Steverson for airshows. In 1997, James M. Read repainted it with a blue fuselage, invasion stripes, and the name “Excalibur,” reflecting its 328th Squadron heritage. Acquired by the Czech company Ceský Letecký Ráj in 2011, it returned to Europe as a cherished warbird.

The Beech C-45H Expeditor from Pure Aviation offered an elegant but very long display, its twin-engine hum providing a calm interlude. A military variant of the Beechcraft Model 18, the C-45H served the U.S. Army during World War II for transport and training, its production spanning the 1930s to 1950s. Restored to pristine condition, this example showcased the aircraft’s classic design—rounded nose, twin tails, and polished aluminium finish.

The Corvus Racer 540, piloted by Péter Besenyei, the godfather of the Red Bull Air Race, delivered a very nice aerobatic display. This Hungarian-designed aircraft, the only one of its kind, boasts an astonishing ±14G airframe limit, far exceeding most aerobatic planes, thanks to its carbon-fiber construction and Lycoming AEIO-540 engine. Besenyei’s performance featured high-G loops, rolls, and knife-edge passes, pushing the Racer’s limits with precision

Besenyei, a pioneer in aerobatics since the 1980s, co-founded the Red Bull Air Race, revolutionising the sport. His mastery at Piestany cemented his legendary status, the Corvus Racer’s unique design and his skill creating a standout moment of technical brilliance.

The Rogallo Team Dubová showcased two ultralight trikes in a series of flypasts, introducing a minimalist form of aviation. Trikes, with their hang glider-style wings and weight-shift control, differ markedly from the fixed-wing and rotary aircraft at the festival, relying on a small motorised carriage for propulsion. This simplicity offers unparalleled freedom and manoeuvrability, ideal for low-and-slow flight.

The team’s display highlighted the trikes’ accessibility and charm, their gentle passes contrasting with the high-performance acts. Rogallo Team Dubová’s performance underscored aviation’s diversity, appealing to enthusiasts drawn to the purity of ultralight flying.

The Aero L-39C from the DarkStar L39 Demo Team, flown by Alessandro Scorrano, presented a beautiful aerobatic display. The L-39’s Ivchenko AI-25 engine and agile airframe made it a natural fit for Scorrano’s precise manoeuvres—tight turns, vertical climbs, and high-speed passes. Previously with the Baltic Bees, Scorrano brought seasoned expertise to the performance, enhancing the jet’s reputation as a training and aerobatic platform.

Beyond the parade, a solo display by a Sikorsky UH-60M Black Hawk from the 1st Helicopter Squadron/51st Wing at Prešov Air Base highlighted the helicopter’s agility. Introduced to the Slovak Air Force in 2017, the UH-60M’s twin GE T700 engines and advanced systems enhance its versatility. The performance featured tight turns, rapid ascents, and hovering, showcasing its handling characteristics and manoeuvrability.

The Sukhoi Su-31, piloted by Jurgis Kairys, showcased incredible aerobatics, a hallmark of this Russian-designed aircraft. Introduced in the 1990s, the Su-31’s lightweight composite structure and Radial R-9 engine enable extreme manoeuvres, with a thrust-to-weight ratio exceeding 1:1. Kairys, a Lithuanian aerobatic icon, performed loops, rolls, and inverted flight with breathtaking precision.

Known for innovations like the “Kairys Wheel,” his decades-long career has redefined aerobatics. At Piestany, his display was a masterclass in skill and daring, the Su-31’s agility perfectly matched to his legendary reputation.

The Mil Mi-2 from Hungarian HeliForce, flown by Lajosh Imreh, delivered a very aggressive display. This Soviet-designed light utility helicopter, introduced in the 1960s, is powered by two Isotov GTD-350 engines, offering versatility in transport and training roles. Imreh, a legendary helicopter pilot, pushed the Mi-2 with high-speed passes and steep climbs, though the absence of his signature white smoke was notable.

The Viper Sky Box Team from Prešov, Slovakia, with four Viper SD4 aircraft, impressed with their precision flying. The SD4, a Slovakian LSA by Tomark Aero, features a Rotax 912 engine and all-metal construction, ideal for training and aerobatics. The team’s display included close formation flypasts and synchronised breaks, their coordination flawless under the sunny skies.

The Polish Flying Dragons Team, with eight paramotors, presented a beautiful, choreographed display with colored smoke. Paramotors, combining a paraglider wing with a small engine, differ from traditional aircraft by using foot-launch and fabric wings, offering a unique, low-speed flight experience. The team’s intricate formations and smoke trails created a visual spectacle against the sky.

Formed to promote paramotor flying, the Flying Dragons’ performance highlighted creativity and accessibility, their synchronised movements a refreshing departure from the festival’s high-powered acts, captivating attendees with artistic flair.

As daylight faded, Festival Letectva Piestany 2025 transitioned into its sunset and night displays, a distinct segment that elevated the event with dramatic lighting and pyrotechnics. These performances, separate from the daytime lineup, offered a fresh perspective on familiar aircraft and pilots.

The Aero L-39C Albatros from the DarkStar L39 Demo Team, flown by Alessandro Scorrano, returned for a beautiful dusk display. The jet’s wingtip tank lights cast a glow across the twilight sky, enhancing the aerobatic manoeuvres with a unique visual flavour. A highlight was a simulated bomb run, culminating in a fireball explosion on the ground, blending theatricality with precision.

The Viper Sky Box Team reappeared with their four Viper SD4 aircraft, their precision flying amplified by pyrotechnics. Close formation flypasts and breaks illuminated the dusk, the sparks contrasting with the SD4’s sleek profiles. The team’s daytime discipline translated effortlessly, the added effects elevating the visual impact.

Lajosh Imreh and the Mil Mi-2 from Hungarian HeliForce returned with a high-energy night display, featuring loads of pyro. The Mi-2’s rugged design, paired with pyrotechnics, made this a thrilling spectacle, reinforcing Imreh’s reputation as a showman and the helicopter’s enduring appeal in dramatic settings.

Jurgis Kairys performed a beautiful night display in the Sukhoi Su-31. This recent addition to his shows included limited pyrotechnics, yet it was still a stunning performance.

The Polish Flying Dragons Team closed the night with their eight paramotors, a highlight for many spectators. The choreographed display, enriched with impressive pyrotechnics, painted the sky with vibrant patterns. The paramotors’ slow, graceful movements contrasted with the day’s intensity, their lights and explosions creating a mesmerising finale.

Following the flying displays, a fireworks and laser show concluded the night, its dazzling lights and synchronised effects providing a fitting capstone to an extraordinary day of aviation.

The Festival Letectva Piestany 2025 was an unequivocal success, blessed by brilliant weather and a lineup of great flying displays that showcased aviation’s breadth and depth. The knowledgeable and entertaining commentator enriched the experience, offering insights that resonated with professionals and enthusiasts alike. Challenges, such as difficult shooting against the sun and the cancelled F-16V flypast—intended as the Slovak F-16s’ public debut—were minor blemishes, as were the absences of a three-ship Zlín Z-142 formation and Czech and Danish L-29s.

Despite these setbacks, the festival’s strengths—rare Ukrainian displays, a robust static lineup, and a seamless blend of day and night performances—solidified its status as a premier European airshow. The organisers’ ability to attract such diversity promises even greater things for future editions, cementing Piestany’s place in the aviation calendar.

REVIEW: Festival Letectva Piestany 2025

Share This Post

REVIEW: Festival Aéreo Aire 25

REVIEW: Aviaticka Pout 2025