The Italian aerobatic team “Pioneer Team” will be joining the 2013 airX Malta International Airshow, along with the RAF's Red Arrows, Joe Ciliberti, President of the Malta Aviation Society, said today.

He said that Pioneer team will combine aerobatics, music and pyrotechnics.

Addressing a press conference at the Armed Forces’ Air Wing earlier today, Mr Ciliberti explained that in the current economic climate it had become increasingly difficult to host air shows.

“In the United States the number of air shows has decreased by more than 60 per cent. One was cancelled just last week in Barcelona. However, we have still been able to host ours and we hope to continue hosting it in the future,” he said.

The Pioneer Team.

The 21st edition would include a star studded cast of “birds”.

The air show will again play host to the pilots of the Red Arrows.

“The Red Arrows only visit two or three countries outside the UK. Their presence is a real testimony to our air show and our close historic military ties with the UK,” he said.

Other jets in the show will Typhoon and Tornado jets. A pair of the RAF’s Tucano aircraft will sport the livery used by Spitfires when they were stationed in Malta in 1943.

Tourism Minister Karmenu said the island had a long tie with aviation after the first sea plane landed in Malta in 1915.

“In two years we will be celebrating 100 years since the first plane visited Malta. Aviation is a big part of our island’s rich history,” Mr Vella said.

The air show is being held between 28-29 September at the Malta International Airport Park 4. Gates open at 10 am. Tickets cost €12, children under 14 are free.

The Times of Malta is among the airshow sponsors.