Austrian Winter Flying Training
Earlier this year, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Austria to document the Austrian Air Force’s demanding winter flying training exercise—the Hochgebirgslandelehrgang 2026. Operating high in the Alps, this exercise places helicopter crews in some of the most challenging conditions imaginable, including extreme cold, thin air, and rapidly changing mountain weather. During the deployment, crews carried out precision landings, alpine navigation, and simulated rescue operations, all designed to prepare them for real-world missions in rugged terrain. The exercise has been published in the latest issue of The Aviation Magazine (Issue 102).
North Macedonia – Air Force
The North Macedonia Air Force is a small but modernizing military aviation force focused on transport, reconnaissance, border security, and support operations. Since joining NATO in 2020, the force has increased cooperation with allied air forces through joint exercises and modernization efforts. Its fleet mainly consists of helicopters such as the Mi-8/17 and Mi-24, which are used for troop transport, medical evacuation, firefighting, and tactical missions. Despite its limited size, the air force plays an important role in national defense and regional security in the Balkans. In October 2021, I had the incredible opportunity to visit and document the North Macedonian’s Air Force. The exercise has been published in Issue 78 of The Aviation Magazine.
Osan Air Base – South Korea
Osan Air Base is a major United States Air Force installation located near Pyeongtaek in South Korea and serves as a key hub for U.S. and allied military operations on the Korean Peninsula. Operated primarily by the United States Air Force alongside the Republic of Korea Air Force, the base hosts fighter aircraft, surveillance units, and air defense systems that support regional security and rapid response missions. Osan Air Base is home to the 51st Fighter Wing and plays a central role in joint military exercises, intelligence operations, and deterrence efforts in East Asia.In October 2019, I had the incredible opportunity to document the operations of the 51st Fighter Wing. The exercise has been published in Issue 69 of The Aviation Magazine.
