Belgian air power will be back on display at this year’s Malta International Airshow in the form of an F-16 Fighting Falcon that was here five years ago.

The first countries to have confirmed their participation in the 23rd edition of the internationally acclaimed event are Belgium, Greece, Italy, Romania and Switzerland. Organised by the Malta Aviation Society, the highly popular show will take place on September 26 and 27.

The Greeks will have two Mirage 2000s on static display. This is the first time Greece will be sending this type of aircraft and only the second time it will take part in the air show.

Romania will make its debut, with an air force C-27J Spartan.

Attendance keeps increasing and this gives us the energy to keep going and give our best to get different aircraft at the show

The Italian Military Mission in Malta has also confirmed participation, through its AB-212 helicopter based in Luqa.

One of the highlights of this year’s edition will be the Swiss Air Force PC-7 team, whose trademark is precision.

Malta Aviation Society president Joe Ciliberti said this year’s show would be one to remember.

“Attendance keeps increasing and this gives us the energy to keep going and give our best to get different aircraft at the show, which is the result of intensive work all year round”.

He pointed out that there is an increasing interest in aviation, resulting in more members and volunteers.

“It is also a pleasure to note that a good number of young people working within the aviation industry first came in touch with the sector through the air show,” Mr Ciliberti said.

For more information follow the Malta Aviation Society on Facebook, on Twitter at @MaltaAirshow, at www.maltairshow.com or by sending an e-mail to info@maltairshow.com.