100 Years of the Polish Air Force Academy Airshow 2025
In 2025, the Polish Air Force Academy marks a monumental milestone—its 100th anniversary. This historic occasion will be celebrated with the Science and Aviation Picnic, an extraordinary event set for June 14 in Dęblin. Unlike the internationally focused Radom airshow, this gathering is a purely Polish affair, offering what may be the year’s best chance to see the nation’s military aircraft from the Air Force, Navy, and Army soar through the skies in a breathtaking display of skill and power.
The Science and Aviation Picnic is more than just an airshow—it’s a tribute to a century of aviation excellence and a bold look toward the future. Held at the academy’s home in Dęblin, the event honors the legacy of the “Eaglets’ School,” a cornerstone of Polish military aviation since its founding, while showcasing the cutting-edge technology and training that continue to shape the country’s aerial forces.
The story of the Polish Air Force Academy begins in 1925, when it was established as the Air Force Officer School in Grudziądz. Just two years later, it relocated to Dęblin, where it has since grown into a modern military-civilian university. Over the past century, the academy has weathered immense challenges, including the tumult of World War II, when its staff and cadets played vital roles in defending Poland, often at great personal cost. From those early days of training pilots in rudimentary aircraft to today’s advanced programs, the institution has produced generations of aviators, engineers, and leaders who have fortified the Polish Air Force’s reputation for excellence.
This anniversary celebration, dubbed the Science and Aviation Picnic, promises a day packed with excitement and education. Gates open at 8:00 AM, welcoming the public to a full slate of activities that kick off with an official ceremony at 10:30 AM. Led by the Rector-Commandant and university authorities, the opening will set the tone for a series of airshows running until 6:00 PM. These displays are thoughtfully organised into thematic blocks, each spotlighting a different facet of Polish aviation, from nimble training planes to roaring fighter jets.
One of the day’s highlights will be the Polish Air Force Academy Block, running from 11:30 AM to noon. This segment showcases the aircraft used to train Poland’s future pilots, including the Diamond DA20, DA40, and DA42, alongside the G-2 Guimbal, Robinson R44, and PZL-130 Orlik. The Aerobatic Team Orlik, flying seven PZL-130s, will dazzle the crowd with precision manoeuvres, joined by a solo acrobatic performance from Artur Kielak on the Gamebird GB1, a craft piloted by a true champion of the skies. It’s a vivid demonstration of the skill and discipline instilled at the academy.
Next up, from noon to 1:00 PM, the Transport Block and reconnaissance aircraft block will feature flypasts of essential support aircraft like the PZL M-28 Bryza, CASA C-295M, C-130 Hercules, SAAB 340 AEW, M-28B1R, and Boeing 737. These workhorses of the Polish military highlight the logistical backbone that keeps operations running smoothly, reflecting the academy’s role in preparing personnel for diverse aviation careers. Then, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, the Unmanned Aerial Systems Block will take flight, showcasing modern drones and UAVs that represent the rapid evolution of both military and civilian aviation technology.
The action continues with the Helicopter Block from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, featuring a lineup of multi-role and combat helicopters such as the Mi-24, Mi-8, Mi-17, Mi-14, Mi-2, SW-4, SH-2G, W-3PL, AW-101, AW-149, and S-70i Black Hawk. These versatile machines will demonstrate their agility and might, offering a thrilling spectacle for the crowd below. Following this, the Historical Block, from 3:00 PM to 3:30 PM, will turn back the clock with flights of iconic aircraft like the Chipmunk and Harvard. This nostalgic nod to the academy’s roots serves as a poignant reminder of how far Polish aviation has come in a hundred years.
The airshows will reach their crescendo with the Jet Block from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM, featuring the F-16 Tiger Demo Team, FA-50, M-346 “Bielik,” and MiG-29. These jets embody the pinnacle of Poland’s aerial capabilities, with the F-16 team’s performance likely to leave spectators in awe of their speed and precision. The day will wrap up with an official departure at 4:30 PM, closing out an unforgettable celebration.
Beyond the skyward thrills, the Science and Aviation Picnic offers plenty on the ground. An exhibition space will spotlight the latest advancements in aviation technology and training methods, while open lectures and discussions with prominent figures from the academic and aviation worlds will delve into Poland’s rich aviation heritage and its forward-looking innovations. These elements aim to inspire attendees—especially younger generations—by connecting the past, present, and future of flight.
Breaking from the past, the Science and Aviation Picnic warmly welcomes international visitors, a significant departure from previous Polish military airshows, where foreigners were typically not allowed to attend. The event’s official website emphasises this inclusivity with the invitation: "We invite everyone – enthusiasts of aviation, science, history, residents of the region and our friends and partners from Poland and abroad – to participate in this unique event." This openness distinguishes the picnic from other Polish military events, such as SKY SHOW at the 32nd Tactical Air Base in Lask back in 2024 (which was later cancelled), and underscores its aim to unite a global audience in celebrating Poland’s aviation legacy.
Admission to this landmark event is free, making it accessible to all who wish to attend. However, registration is required and will begin on May 19, 2025.
The event carries a fitting motto: “In tribute to history, with the future in mind.” It’s a sentiment echoed by Rector-Commandant Brig. Gen. pilot dr inż. Krzysztof Cur, who sees the picnic as a chance to unite people across generations and backgrounds. Whether you’re an aviation buff, a family looking for a memorable outing, or a student curious about the skies, this celebration offers something special. It’s a day to marvel at the machines and the men and women who master them, to reflect on a century of Polish wings, and to imagine where those wings might take the nation next.
For more information on the event and to keep track of the constantly updated lineup, visit the official event website by clicking here.
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