Belgian Air Force Days 2026 Dates Confirmed
The Belgian Air Force has set the dates for the Belgian Air Force Days 2026, taking place on June 27 and 28, 2026, at Florennes Air Force Base in the Walloon Region of Belgium. This biennial event promises a thrilling showcase of aviation prowess that draws enthusiasts from across Europe.
Held at Florennes, the airshow is renowned for its spectacular aerial displays and rare opportunities to explore advanced military aircraft up close. It’s an unmissable experience for anyone passionate about flight, blending excitement with a celebration of aviation heritage.
A330 MRTT and Belgian Air Force F-16s / Belgian Air Force Days 2023
This announcement has sparked excitement among aviation fans, as the Belgian Air Force Days have built a reputation as one of Europe’s top airshows, seamlessly combining heart-pounding performances with an in-depth look at military aviation technology. Whether you’re a dedicated plane-spotter with years of experience or simply someone who enjoys a captivating spectacle, this event at Florennes Air Force Base offers two days of unforgettable action in the summer of 2026. The choice of Florennes, located in the province of Namur, underscores the event’s tradition of rotating between Belgium’s key airbases to highlight different facets of the nation’s military infrastructure.
The origins of the Belgian Air Force Days trace back to the early 20th century, mirroring the storied history of the Belgian Air Component, which was established in 1909 as one of the world’s first air services. Over the decades, it has evolved from a modest outfit into a sophisticated force with an international presence. The airshow itself has grown alongside this transformation, shifting from a small-scale military demonstration into a major public event that rotates between airbases like Florennes and Kleine-Brogel. While detailed records of its earliest days are limited, the modern iteration of the Belgian Air Force Days emerged after World War II, gaining prominence as a platform to exhibit Belgium’s aviation capabilities and strengthen ties with global allies.
The event’s history of rotating locations adds to its appeal, allowing different Belgian airbases to take center stage. For instance, the most recent show in 2023 was hosted at Kleine-Brogel, following a pause after the 2018 edition—also at Kleine-Brogel—due to the global pandemic. That 2023 event reaffirmed the airshow’s status as a beloved fixture in the aviation world, drawing massive crowds despite challenging weather. Now, with the 2026 edition returning to Florennes—previously a host in 2016—the Belgian Air Force continues this tradition, giving each location a chance to shine while showcasing its unique contributions to the nation’s defense and aviation legacy.
What truly distinguishes the Belgian Air Force Days is its roster of world-class performers, a highlight that will undoubtedly continue at Florennes in 2026. Over the years, at various host airbases including Kleine-Brogel and Florennes, the skies have been electrified by aerobatic legends like the Patrouille de France, whose precision and tricolor smoke trails leave audiences in awe, and the Red Arrows, whose red Hawks execute flawless routines with roaring intensity. Italy’s Frecce Tricolori have also been a recurring favorite, streaking across the sky in green, white, and red. Solo performances have matched this grandeur, with the F-16 Fighting Falcon’s raw power and the Eurofighter Typhoon’s agility thrilling onlookers at past events.
The 2023 event at Kleine-Brogel set a high bar for what’s to come at Florennes, featuring standout acts that underscored the airshow’s international draw. The U.S. Air Force’s F-35A Lightning II Demo Team delivered its full unrestricted display for the first time in years, leaving the crowd speechless with its cutting-edge maneuvers. Other notable performances included the Czech Air Force’s W-3A Sokol helicopter demonstration and a breathtaking show by a Spanish Typhoon, highlighting the event’s ability to attract elite talent from NATO allies and beyond. These moments, experienced at past locations, build anticipation for what Florennes will host in 2026.
Beyond the aerial spectacle, the Belgian Air Force Days offer an impressive ground experience, which will be a key feature at Florennes Air Force Base. The 2023 show at Kleine-Brogel showcased static displays ranging from the iconic Mi-17 to an array of aircraft from allied nations, allowing visitors to marvel at the engineering behind these machines. Attendees can walk around fighter jets, explore the interiors of transport planes, and engage with crews to learn about their operations. For the Belgian Air Force, these displays double as a recruitment opportunity, igniting interest among younger visitors who might one day join the ranks as pilots or technicians.
The event’s popularity is evident in the diverse crowds it attracts, a trend that Florennes will likely see in 2026. In 2023, over 100,000 people flocked to Kleine-Brogel across the weekend, braving scorching heat in the mid-30s Celsius to witness the spectacle. Friday’s Spotter’s Day catered to dedicated enthusiasts armed with cameras and logbooks, while Saturday and Sunday welcomed families, locals, and tourists from across Europe. This vibrant mix, united by a love of aviation, transforms the Belgian Air Force Days into more than just a national event—it’s a global gathering for those captivated by the world of flight.
Florennes Air Force Base itself is a major attraction for the 2026 event, bringing its own character to the airshow. Situated in the municipality of Florennes in the province of Namur, approximately 100 kilometers southeast of Brussels, it’s a vital military hub with a rich history of hosting significant aviation activities. Renowned for its contributions to NATO operations and exercises, Florennes has a legacy of drawing rare aircraft and passionate crowds. Its expansive layout, featuring long runways and open spaces, is perfectly suited for low-level flybys and sprawling static displays, while its Walloon Region location provides a scenic backdrop easily reachable from cities like Brussels and Charleroi.
As June 27 and 28, 2026, approach, the Belgian Air Force Days at Florennes are poised to deliver another unforgettable chapter. The 2023 event raised expectations, and with two years to prepare, organizers are set to surpass it—perhaps with a debut from a next-generation jet or a nod to history with a vintage warbird. For the Belgian Air Force, it’s an opportunity to demonstrate its expertise, deepen alliances, and inspire future aviators. For attendees, it’s two days of aviation brilliance. If your calendar’s free and you’re drawn to the skies, Florennes is the place to be in the summer of 2026.
For more information, visit the official Belgian Air Force Days website by clicking here.
