Polish Air Force F-16 Tiger Demo Team Returns to Athens Flying Week in 2025
The Polish Air Force F-16 Tiger Demo Team will be returning to the Athens Flying Week this year, bringing their signature blend of precision and power back to one of southeast Europe’s premier aviation events. Set against the historic backdrop of Tanagra Air Base, their performance promises to captivate aviation enthusiasts and casual spectators alike, marking a highlight of the 2025 airshow season.
This return is more than just another display for the Polish team—it’s a celebration of a decade of excellence in the skies. With a new, more aggressive routine and a skilled pilot at the controls, the F-16 Tiger Demo Team is ready to make an indelible mark on the Mediterranean stage, reinforcing their reputation as one of Europe’s standout display teams.
F-16 Tiger Demo Team / Royal International Air Tattoo 2018
The Polish Air Force F-16 Tiger Demo Team has been a symbol of Polish aviation prowess since its formation, and 2025 marks their 10th anniversary—a milestone that adds extra weight to their appearance at Athens Flying Week. Leading the team once again is Major Maciej “SLAB” Krakowian, who stepped into the demo pilot role during the 2023 season, succeeding Major Wojciech “Ramrod” Kieczur. Known for his deft handling of the Lockheed Martin F-16C Fighting Falcon, Major Krakowian has spent the past two years refining his displays, and this season he’s unveiling a revamped display routine that pushes the aircraft’s capabilities further. The new program is described as more aggressive, with tighter manoeuvres and dynamic sequences that showcase both the F-16’s agility and the pilot’s skill.
This won’t be the team’s first time thrilling the crowds at Athens Flying Week, the team performed at the event in 2017. That performance left a lasting impression, and their absence in subsequent years only heightened anticipation for their return. Now, with a decade of experience behind them and a refreshed routine, the Polish Tigers are poised to deliver something truly memorable in 2025.
Held annually at Tanagra Air Base, Athens Flying Week has earned its place as a standout event on the European airshow circuit. It’s a rare gathering that blends military might with civilian flair, set against a landscape where ancient history meets modern technology. The roar of jet engines contrasts with the quiet presence of Greece’s storied ruins, creating an atmosphere that’s as unique as it is exhilarating. For aviation enthusiasts, it’s a chance to see some of the world’s most advanced aircraft in action, while for the broader public, it’s an accessible entry into the world of flight.
The 2025 edition is already shaping up to be a diverse affair, with a growing lineup of confirmed participants from across Europe and beyond. The Polish Air Force F-16 Tiger Demo Team’s inclusion makes Poland the fifth country confirmed for the show, joining Austria, France, Germany, and host nation Greece. More nations and aircraft are expected to be announced in the coming months, but the current roster is already impressive. Notably, this isn’t the first F-16 slated to grace the skies over Tanagra this year—the Hellenic Air Force’s Zeus Demo Team will also be performing with their own Lockheed Martin F-16C Fighting Falcon, setting the stage for a friendly rivalry between the two teams.
The official word of the Polish team’s participation came straight from their social media channels, where they shared their enthusiasm for the event. “This September, you’ll see us at a truly special place—Tanagra Air Base during Athens Flying Week!” the post read. “The F-16 Tiger Demo Team Poland is joining an event that blends southern spirit, aerial mastery, and the unique atmosphere of the Mediterranean skies. It’s set to be a weekend of contrasts: ancient ruins on the horizon and modern jets slicing through the air with a roar. We’re coming to showcase Polish precision, energy, and a passion for flying. And it’s also a chance to meet the Greek audience, who share our love for aviation. Tanagra, get ready—the Polish Tiger is on its way!” The announcement captures the team’s excitement and hints at the spectacle they’re preparing to deliver.
Even with more announcements still to come, the current lineup for Athens Flying Week 2025 offers plenty for aviation fans to look forward to. On the civilian side, Melanie Astles will take to the skies in her Extra 330SC, delivering a high-energy aerobatic display that showcases the nimble single-seater’s capabilities. Her performance is a testament to the skill and artistry of civilian pilots, providing a counterpoint to the military heavyweights dominating the schedule.
The military contingent is equally compelling. The Austrian Air Force’s Pilatus PC-7 Turbo Trainer, flown by the Airplane Training Squadron, will bring a training aircraft’s precision to the show, while the French Air & Space Force’s Rafale Solo Display promises the raw power and elegance of the Dassault Rafale. Germany is well-represented with the Eurofighter Typhoon from Tactical Air Force Wing 31 cutting through the air, alongside a static display of the Airbus A400M Atlas from Air Transport Wing 62—a chance for visitors to get up close to one of the Luftwaffe’s workhorses.
The Hellenic Air Force, as the home team, will field their Zeus Demo Team with the F-16C Fighting Falcon, an aircraft that’s become a fan favourite at Tanagra. Italy rounds out the early confirmations with a flypast from the Panavia A-200A Tornado of 6° Stormo and a full display by the Leonardo HH-139B helicopter from 15° Stormo, showcasing both speed and versatility. The Polish Air Force F-16 Tiger Demo Team slots seamlessly into this lineup, adding their own flavour to an already rich mix of aerial talent.
For the Polish Air Force F-16 Tiger Demo Team, Athens Flying Week 2025 is more than just another stop on the airshow circuit—it’s a chance to reflect on a decade of achievements and look forward to the next chapter. Major Maciej “SLAB” Krakowian, with his steady hand and bold approach, embodies the team’s evolution, taking the lessons of his predecessor and building on them with a display that’s both a technical marvel and a visceral thrill. Their return to Tanagra after a brief hiatus only amplifies the anticipation, as fans eager to see the F-16’s distinctive tiger-striped livery back in action will finally get their wish.
As the event draws closer, Athens Flying Week will continue to build momentum, drawing in crowds from Greece and beyond. The Polish team’s presence strengthens the show’s international appeal, bridging cultures through a shared appreciation for aviation. When the Tigers take flight over Tanagra, they’ll carry with them not just the pride of Poland, but the spirit of an event that celebrates the timeless allure of the skies. For enthusiasts who live for the sound of afterburners and the sight of a jet banking hard against a clear blue horizon, this is one performance that won’t disappoint.
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