BIAS 2024: First Performers Revealed, Featuring Rare Display by Bulgarian Su-25
Bucharest, Romania – The Bucharest International Air Show (BIAS), Romania’s largest airshow, is set to take place on August 30th and 31st, 2024. The organizers have recently unveiled some of the participants for this year’s event, and the line-up promises to be nothing short of spectacular.
Among the highlights is an incredibly rare flying display by the Bulgarian Air Force’s Sukhoi Su-25K Frogfoot. This subsonic, single-seat, twin-engine jet, designed for close air support, will make its only appearance outside Bulgaria this year. Given that the Bulgarian Air Force operates only seven Su-25K and Su-25UBK jets, with some reports suggesting even fewer, this display is poised to be one of the rarest and most anticipated on the European airshow circuit in 2024.
Adding to the excitement, the Hawks of Romania will be performing with six Extra 300L and Extra 330SC aerobatic aircraft. Known for their precision and skill, the Hawks of Romania are expected to deliver a mesmerizing performance that will captivate audiences.
The Aerobatic Yakers, flying three Yak-52 aircraft, are set to return with their thrilling aerobatic display. Additionally, in a separate display, they will be joined by the legendary Lithuanian aerobatic pilot Jurgis Kairys in his Sukhoi Su-31, forming the Air Bandits team. Together, they will simulate a World War II air combat scenario, complete with the powerful music of Rammstein and dramatic ground pyrotechnic effects, including massive explosions and a wall of fire. Kairys will also perform his signature solo aerobatics on both days, adding an extra layer of excitement to the show.
From Latvia, the Baltic Bees Jet Team will bring their four L-39C Albatros jets to perform an intricate aerobatic display that showcases their exceptional coordination and skill. Meanwhile, the Flying Bulls Aerobatic Team from Czechia will dazzle the audience with their performance on four XA-42 aircraft.
Poland’s Squadron Foundation will contribute two Mig-15s (Lim-2 and SBLim-2, both built under license in Poland) to the flying display. Additionally, also from Poland, the show will feature a unique paramotor team known as the Flying Dragons, adding a novel element to the show.
Making their debut in Romania, the German Flying Legends will present the P-51 Mustang “Frances Dell,” a historic aircraft that is sure to be a highlight for vintage aviation enthusiasts.
The Romanian Air Force will play a significant role in the show, showcasing an array of aircraft including the F-16 Fighting Falcon, IAR 99 Soim, C-27J Spartan, C-130 Hercules, Antonov AN-26 & An-30, IAR-330 Puma, IAR-316 Alouette, and IAK-52. These aircraft will participate in flypasts, solo displays, tactical displays, and static displays, demonstrating the full spectrum of Romanian military aviation capabilities.
The German Air Force Eurofighter Typhoon Solo Display Team will make its Romanian Air Show debut, promising an exhilarating performance. Additionally, the German Sikorsky CH-53G will be featured in the static display. Returning to Romania, the Slovenian Air Force and Air Defence Pilatus PC-9M Hudournik will perform a solo display, adding to the international flavour of the event.
With several more participants yet to be announced, the Bucharest International Air Show 2024 is shaping up to be an extraordinary event. Aviation enthusiasts and the general public alike can look forward to a weekend filled with spectacular aerial displays, historic aircraft, and cutting-edge technology. Stay tuned for further updates as the full lineup is revealed in the coming months. This year’s show promises to be a remarkable celebration of aviation, innovation, and international collaboration.
For more information, visit the official BIAS website by clicking here.