Roskilde Airshow 2025 marked the 30-year anniversary of Denmark’s largest air display event since its inception in 1995. The airshow took place at Roskilde Airport (Roskilde Lufthavn) over the weekend of 23–24 August 2025. Organized by the Roskilde Airshow Association, the event celebrated three decades of aviation culture, featuring an expanded programme, record attendance, and a special twilight display. Approximately 21,000 visitors attended the airshow across the weekend with approximately 11,000 attendees on Saturday and just over 10,000 attendees on Sunday. This represented the highest attendance in the event’s history, reflecting its growing popularity both within Denmark and internationally. Visitors included aviation enthusiasts, families, industry professionals, and international guests.
Saturday 23rd August featured both a daytime programme and a unique twilight airshow in the evening, combining aerobatics with LED, laser, and pyrotechnic effects. On the other hand, Sunday 24th August comprised a full day of flight demonstrations and static displays. In addition to the flying displays, the event offered extensive ground exhibitions, aviation industry stands, and opportunities for pleasure flights in helicopters and small aircraft.
Roskilde airshow 2025 featured a number of unique milestones and firsts in the event’s history. Firstly, the 2025 edition marked the 30th anniversary of the show, celebrating the airshow’s long term success ever since its inception in 1995. 2025 also saw an expansion of the twilight show, which was a major attraction among the public showcasing aerial performance with special lighting effects, lasers, and fireworks.
The event marked the first time a female aerobatic pilot, Swedish pilot Sanna Hedin, participated in the show. She performed in an Extra 300 aircraft, becoming the first female aerobatic performer in Roskilde Airshow history. Another important milestone for the show was the return of the the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team the Red Arrows which performed a full display on Sunday, drawing significant public attention. Roskilde airshow 2025 was also the first time a new “First Class Area” was introduced with upgraded amenities, improved food and beverage services, and a dedicated spotters’ area for aviation photographers.
The aerial and ground programmes covered a broad spectrum of aviation starting with a variety of military aircraft from several European air arms, most notably the German Air Force, Swedish Air Force, Royal Air Force, Polish Air Force, and the Portuguese Air Force. All these air arms contributed aircraft for the static and tactical displays. In addition, the home team, i.e. the Royal Danish Air Force contributed almost every aircraft in their inventory, except for the F-35A Lightning. These air arms were further complemented by local civil and commercial demonstrations by local operators and air service providers, historic warbirds and restored aircraft representing early and mid-20th-century aviation heritage, aerobatic displays, and home-built and experimental aircraft: showcased innovation in small-scale aviation and design. Complementing the flying programme, the ground exhibitions included static aircraft displays, flight schools, aviation suppliers, and family-friendly attractions.
As expected, the Royal Danish Air Force was present in numbers for the event, with nearly all types in Danish Air Force inventory participating in the static and flying display of the show. The highlight of the show was undoubtedly the Royal Danish Air Force F-16 Display team. For more than a decade, the Royal Danish Air Force (RDAF) F-16 Solo Display Team has been one of Europe’s most recognisable single-ship demonstrations, showcasing the agility, power, and precision of Denmark’s frontline fighter. In 2025, the team took to the skies for the last time symbolically closing a significant chapter in Danish airpower history. At the centre of this historic finale was Captain Troels “TEO” Vang, the active-duty fighter pilot chosen to lead the final season and deliver the last public F-16 displays in Danish Air Force service. A brief report highlighting the operational accomplishments of the RDAF F-16AM demo team can be found on the following link.
The RDAF Air Transport Wing contributed a Lockheed Martin C-130J-30 and a Challenger CL604 from Eskadrille 721 based at Ålborg (EKYT). At Aalborg Air Base, Eskadrille 721 of the Royal Danish Air Force’s Air Transport Wing operates both the C-130J-30 Hercules and the Bombardier Challenger CL604, aircraft that together cover a wide range of national and international transport tasks. The stretched C-130J-30 provides Denmark with a highly capable tactical airlift platform, able to transport troops, vehicles, cargo, and humanitarian aid, as well as conduct airdrop and operations from short or austere runways worldwide. Complementing this, the CL604 serves as a flexible light transport and VIP aircraft, used for government travel, medical evacuation, and rapid personnel transport, offering speed, range, and comfort. Together, these aircraft enable Eskadrille 721 to support Danish military operations, international missions, and civil authorities with reliable and versatile air transport capabilities.
At Karup Air Base, Eskadrille 722 of the Royal Danish Air Force Helicopter Wing operates the EH101 Mk512 Merlin, a modern and highly capable helicopter optimized for search and rescue and special operations support. The Mk512 offers long range, excellent endurance, and advanced avionics, allowing it to operate effectively over the North Sea, the Baltic, and in demanding Arctic environments around Greenland and the Faroe Islands. With its powerful engines, large cabin, and sophisticated rescue equipment, the EH101 enables Eskadrille 722 to conduct complex missions such as long-range search and rescue, medical evacuation, and military support, providing a critical life-saving and operational capability for Denmark both at home and abroad. The Merlin provided a spirited display on both days of the airshow, closing off the show in style as it performed most of its display at show centre, thus engaging the crowd who were noted to enjoy its demo display.
Another welcome sight was the presence of a RDAF MH-60R from Eskadrille 723 at Karup sporting a special livery commemorating the 75 years of the air force. It arrived in style for the airshow flanked by two RDAF F-16s creating some memorable shots for us photographers. The MH-60R Seahawk, a state-of-the-art maritime helicopter designed for naval warfare and fleet support. The MH-60R provides Denmark with advanced capabilities in anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare, maritime surveillance, and search and rescue, supported by sophisticated sensors, radar, and mission systems. Operating primarily from Royal Danish Navy frigates as well as from shore bases, the Seahawk’s versatility, endurance, and interoperability with allied naval forces allow Eskadrille 723 to play a vital role in protecting Danish and allied maritime interests in the North Atlantic and Baltic regions.
Roskilde Airshow 2025 also attracted the latest addition to the Royal Danish Air Force Home Guard’s aviation component—known in Danish as Flyverhjemmeværnet. The unit operates a pair of De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter short takeoff and landing (STOL) utility aircraft that are based at Roskilde Airport (and occasionally at Aalborg) as part of Eskadrille 270. These Twin Otters were acquired under an eight-year lease and replaced the older leased Britten-Norman Defender aircraft, entering service and reaching full operational capability in early 2025. They are specially equipped with modern electro-optical and infrared sensor packages that allow extended surveillance, search-and-rescue, maritime patrol and support tasks for the Danish Defence, police, and as part of EU border agency Frontex missions. The aircraft can operate from short runways, stay airborne longer than many helicopters, and carry crews including pilots, a system operator, and additional specialists to carry out a wide range of domestic and international patrol and monitoring duties.
One of the star attractions of the flying display was the German Air Force Eurofighter Display Team, highlighting the performance and agility of the Eurofighter at airshows across Europe. Led by the display pilot “Noble,” a combat-ready Eurofighter pilot from Taktisches Luftwaffengeschwader 74, the team performs high-energy solo routines that highlight the aircraft’s extreme thrust, manoeuvrability and advanced flight-control systems. Noble brings a distinctive background — beginning his career as an aircraft mechanic before transitioning to pilot training — and now combines frontline duties with his role as the Air Force’s public demonstration pilot.
Although presented as a solo act, the display is supported by a dedicated technical and safety team that prepares and maintains the aircraft for each performance. The Typhoon Display Team plays an important role in public outreach, recruitment, and promoting the capabilities of the modern Luftwaffe. Through participation in major airshows and its integration into the broader “Display Team Germany” concept, it helps present a unified and professional image of German military aviation.
Besides the Eurofighter, the German Air Force also sent two examples of the Airbus A400M aircraft for the flying and static display of the show. Both aircraft were extremely popular with the crowds, especially when the A400M was set through its paces in the flying display, showing the extreme manoeuverability of the aircraft. The German Air Force’s Airbus A400M Atlas is a modern, multi-role military transport aircraft used by the Luftwaffe for strategic and tactical airlift, aerial refueling, and humanitarian missions. Germany has ordered a total of 53 A400M aircraft, making it one of the largest customers for the type, and as of late 2025 around 48 of these have been delivered to the Bundeswehr. Most of the German A400Ms are based at Wunstorf Air Base in Lower Saxony, where they are operated by Air Transport Wing 62 (Lufttransportgeschwader 62), with the entire fleet concentrated there for operations, training, and maintenance.
The German Air Force also send a Panavia Tornado IDS from Taktisches Luftwaffengeschwader 33 based at Büchel. The Tornado IDS (Interdiction/Strike) based at Büchel Air Base is a twin-seat, variable-sweep wing combat aircraft optimized for low-level penetration strike, air interdiction, and both conventional and nuclear missions under NATO’s nuclear sharing arrangements. It can deliver a wide range of ordnance including gravity bombs, precision-guided munitions and, uniquely in the Luftwaffe, dual-capable nuclear weapons, and is equipped to operate in all-weather conditions at low altitude to evade enemy air defenses. The Tornado IDS fleet at Büchel is flown by Taktisches Luftwaffengeschwader 33, the only German unit certified for the nuclear delivery role, with U.S. B61 bombs stored on site for potential use by these aircraft as part of NATO commitments. Historically Germany received 247 Tornados, but numbers have dwindled over decades of retirements; as of the mid-2020s Büchel’s wing operates around 46 Tornado IDS aircraft, with the type planned to remain in service through at least 2025 while a future replacement is introduced.
My personal highlight from the visiting air arms consisted of a rarely seen German Air Force AS532 Cougar, forming part of the German Air Force Special Air Mission Wing. The German Air Force’s Special Air Mission Wing operates a mixed fleet of fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters. Its “white fleet” handles government and VIP transport, while its former “grey fleet” supported military transport tasks. Aircraft maintenance is often provided through partnerships with civilian firms such as Lufthansa Technik.
The fleet includes long-range VIP jets like the Airbus A350-900, making Germany the first to field a government-configured A350, as well as medium-range aircraft such as the A319CJ, A321, and Bombardier Global types for officials and delegations. The helicopter component includes three Eurocopter AS532U2 Cougars (serials 82+01, 82+02, 82+03), primarily used for regional VIP transport around Berlin. The AS532 is a medium transport helicopter suitable for small passenger groups. While the Cougars are sometimes associated with the term ‘AS532 Special Air Mission Wing’, they represent only one part of a larger, diverse fleet.
Another very welcome participant was the debut of the Portuguese Air Force at this airshow with the Embraer KC-390 Millenium. The Embraer KC-390 Millennium is a modern, twin-turbofan military transport aircraft operated from Beja Air Base (Base Aérea Nº 11) by Esquadra 506 “Rinocerontes”, where it provides Portugal with a significantly enhanced tactical and strategic airlift capability. Portugal originally ordered five KC-390 aircraft under a 2019 contract that also included a flight simulator and support package to replace its ageing C-130H Hercules fleet; deliveries began in 2023, and in 2025 Portugal exercised an option for a sixth aircraft, extending the planned fleet to six.
The KC-390 is a highly versatile multimission platform capable of transporting troops, vehicles and cargo over intercontinental distances, conducting medical evacuation, aerial refueling, search and rescue, and humanitarian assistance missions, all while flying at jet transport speeds with a payload capacity of around 26 tonnes. Its standard NATO-compatible communications and systems enhance interoperability with allied forces on international operations. Stationing the fleet at Beja consolidates Portugal’s strategic air mobility and enables rapid response for both national and NATO tasks.
The flying display also showcased a second Eurofighter demo, provided by the Royal Air Force. In 2025 the RAF Typhoon Display Team was led by display pilot Nathan Shawyer of 29 Squadron at RAF Coningsby. Supported by a travelling cadre of volunteer engineers, weapons and avionics specialists, ground-support technicians and PR staff, the team works intensively behind the scenes to ensure each performance is safe, polished and technically sound. The 2025 display season featured a busy schedule across the UK and abroad, including high-profile appearances at airshows such as the Blackpool Air Show, RAF Cosford Air Show, English Riviera Air Show, Royal International Air Tattoo, and the Isle of Man Classic TT, among many others. At these events the Typhoon’s display highlights its exceptional speed, agility and power, serving both as an impressive public spectacle and as a demonstration of the RAF’s operational aviation capability.
The Swedes are normally regular attendees at Danish airshows, and this year was no different as they sent a trio of JAS-39 Gripens for the static and flying display. The Swedish Air Force Saab Gripen Demo Team is a highly regarded aerobatic and tactical demonstration unit that showcases the capabilities of the JAS 39 Gripen multirole fighter. Drawn from Skaraborg Wing (F 7)—based at Såtenäs Air Base near Lidköping, the central hub for Gripen pilot training in Sweden—the team’s pilots are active-duty Air Force aviators who bring operational authenticity to every display. Their routines highlight the aircraft’s hallmark traits, including agility, short-field performance, rapid acceleration, and advanced flight-control systems, often featuring tight turns, high-alpha maneuvers, and powerful vertical climbs that reflect how the Gripen performs in real-world missions.
Beyond pure aerobatics, the demo team serves as a public ambassador for Swedish aerospace technology and the broader international Gripen program. With F 7’s “Gripencentrum” training both Swedish and export-nation pilots, the team’s appearances at airshows across Europe and around the world help demonstrate the aircraft’s versatility, ease of maintenance, and modern avionics to both the public and potential partner nations. Through dynamic routines and expert commentary, the Gripen Demo Team offers an accessible window into Sweden’s defense aviation capabilities and the design philosophy behind the Gripen.
The German Army Tiger Display Team represents the German Army Aviation Corps (Heeresflieger) and operates the Eurocopter Tiger UHT (Unterstützungshubschrauber Tiger), Germany’s dedicated attack helicopter. The team regularly appears at major European airshows and military open days to demonstrate the Tiger’s agility, firepower, and battlefield capabilities. Crewed by experienced operational pilots, the display highlights aggressive maneuvering, rapid direction changes, steep climbs and dives, precision hovering, and terrain-following flight that reflect real combat profiles. Often accompanied by commentary explaining the aircraft’s role, the routine emphasizes missions such as close air support, armed reconnaissance, and escort operations. Through its high-energy performance, the German Army Tiger Display Team showcases both the technological sophistication of the Tiger helicopter and the skill and professionalism of German Army aviators, serving as a powerful ambassador for the Bundeswehr to the public and international audiences.
The German Army NH-90 Display Team represents the German Army Aviation Corps (Heeresflieger) and performs dynamic helicopter demonstrations with the NHIndustries NH-90 Tactical Transport Helicopter (TTH) at airshows and military events across Europe. Drawn primarily from Transport Helicopter Regiment 10 based at Faßberg Air Base, the team showcases the NH-90’s versatility, agility, and operational capabilities through a carefully choreographed display lasting around seven minutes. The routine typically includes precision hovering, tight turns, steep climbs and descents, sideways and rearward flight, and a dramatic high-energy flypast, sometimes enhanced with pyrotechnic flares during dusk or night performances. Beyond entertaining spectators, the display highlights the professionalism of German Army aircrews and the NH-90’s role in missions such as troop transport, medical evacuation, and logistical support, making the team a prominent ambassador for the Bundeswehr at major international airshows.
The Polish Air Force Orlik Display Team, flying seven sleek PZL‑130 Orlik turboprop trainers, brought their trademark precision and flair to Roskilde Airshow 2025, marking one of the standout international acts. Established in 1998 at Poland’s 42nd Training Air Base, the team’s seven‑aircraft formation — though only six flew, with a seventh held in reserve — executed tight, synchronized aerobatics including rolls, loops, and close‑formation passes that highlighted both pilot skill and the maneuverability of the Orlik. Their presence not only underscored the show’s commitment to world-class display teams, but also offered spectators a glimpse into Poland’s rich training heritage and the disciplined artistry of its Air Force.
The RAF Red Arrows, the Royal Air Force’s world-renowned aerobatic display team, made a highly anticipated return to Roskilde Airshow 2025, marking their first appearance there since 2009. On Saturday, they performed a dramatic fly‑past before landing, and on Sunday they wowed the audience with a full precision aerobatic display in their iconic nine‑ship diamond formation. Their presence was highlighted as one of the show’s major attractions during the airshow’s 30th anniversary, contributing to an event that drew over 21,000 spectators over the weekend.
Conclusion
Overall, the event was well-coordinated with enhanced visitor facilities, efficient crowd management, and accessible parking. In addition, weather conditions were largely favourable, allowing the full flying programme to proceed as scheduled. As expected, the organisers emphasised safety, sustainability, and inclusivity throughout the event. The combination of military, civil, and recreational aviation created a balanced and engaging experience for both families and enthusiasts. The show also made sure to support the local economy of Roskilde through tourism, hospitality, and associated services. In addition, the participation of globally recognised teams (such as the Red Arrows) reinforced the airshow’s standing within the European airshow circuit. This resulted in a record attendance for the show, as the 2025 edition drew more visitors than any previous show, confirming Roskilde Airshow’s position as one of Denmark’s premier aviation events.
Roskilde Airshow 2025 successfully commemorated 30 years of aviation celebration with its most ambitious and well-attended programme to date. The combination of historical reflection, cutting-edge display teams, and innovative show elements, notably the twilight display, highlighted the event’s evolution from a regional gathering into an internationally recognised airshow. Looking forward, organisers have indicated intentions to expand international participation, further enhance the visitor experience, and continue integrating technology and sustainability into future editions.
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