Historic Flight: TS-11 Iskra Soars Again After 17 Years
In a spectacular return to the skies, the TS-11 Iskra, an emblematic aircraft of Polish aviation heritage, took to the air for the first time in 17 years today. This remarkable event was orchestrated by the Fundacja Bialo-Czerwone Skrzydla (White-Red Wings Foundation) as part of their 10th-anniversary celebrations.
The TS-11 Iskra, adorned in a beautiful white and red livery, last served the Polish Air Force 17 years ago. After its retirement, the aircraft was transferred from the Air Force to the Institute of Technology and then to the White-Red Wings Foundation. The diligent efforts of the Foundation’s mechanics have restored the aircraft, bearing the number 1713, to a pristine flying condition. It will now carry the civilian registration SP-YTZ.
TS-11 (1713) SP-YTZ
Photo: White-Red Wings Foundation
Today’s historic flight was piloted by Foundation pilots Tadeusz Zaworski and Miroslaw Obrebski, both of whom have extensive experience with the TS-11. The aircraft’s stunning new paint scheme was completed by PZL Mielec, a Lockheed Martin Company, showcasing the collaborative effort involved in bringing this project to fruition.
The TS-11 Iskra, affectionately known as “The Lady of Polish Aviation,” was officially retired as a training aircraft by the Polish Air Force in December 2020. However, it continued to fly with the Polish Air Force Aerobatic Team, the White-Red Sparks, until mid-2022, when the last Iskra was retired. Many of these retired aircraft have since found a new home with the White-Red Wings Foundation, which now boasts a significant collection of TS-11 Iskra jets, including a rare example from the Indian Air Force.
In an exciting development, the White-Red Wings Foundation has also announced that their aerobatic team will be performing as a three-ship formation at various airshows across Poland throughout this season. This significant revelation comes on the heels of a commentary shared by one of the announcers at the Radom Airshow 2023, hinting at the Foundation's aspirations to revitalize the renowned White-Red Sparks into a civilian aerobatic display team.
As the TS-11 Iskra gracefully ascends back into the skies, it stands as a poignant symbol of the White-Red Wings Foundation's dedication and a nostalgic homage to the rich tapestry of Polish aviation heritage. The Foundation expresses heartfelt appreciation to every individual who played a part in bringing this project to fruition and eagerly anticipates the opportunity to enthral spectators at air displays across the season.
Stay connected for further updates as this will certainly not be the final occasion you will be hearing about the noteworthy initiatives undertaken by the White-Red Wings Foundation.
