Athens Flying Week (AFW) is an annual international aviation event held in Athens, Greece. Here’s what the event has traditionally been known for:

1. Air Shows: AFW is primarily known for its airshows, which often feature a range of aircraft from historic planes to modern fighter jets. Aerobatic teams from various countries, solo pilots, and parachutists often participate, providing thrilling displays for spectators.
2. Tanagra Air Force Base: In recent years, the main event of the AFW has taken place at the Tanagra Air Force Base. This location allows for a wide variety of aircraft to participate and provides an expansive viewing area for spectators.
3. Educational Activities: The event sometimes offers educational activities aimed at inspiring younger generations about aviation. This can include presentations, workshops, and interactive exhibits.
4. Static Displays: In addition to the flying displays, many aircraft are typically on static display, allowing attendees to get an up-close look at various planes and helicopters.
5. International Participation: Teams and pilots from different countries often participate in AFW, making it a truly international event.
6. Night Air Shows: On occasion, AFW has included night airshows, where aircraft perform aerobatics enhanced by pyrotechnics and lights.                                                                                                                                                                                Athens Flying Week, the largest air show in the Balkans, with over 500,000 loyal fans, continues today at Tanagra Air Base.The Greek aviation celebration, which this year is organized for the 11th consecutive year, can be admired by the public and guests, including journalists and representatives of the air force. Athens Flying Week (AFW) 2023 concludes on Sunday afternoon.
   1. American F-35 Debut: The presence of the American F-35, especially with Captain Kristin “BEO” Wolfe as the pilot, was a major highlight. This demonstrates the expanding reach and influence of the F-35 platform, as countries around the world seek to integrate it into their air forces.
   2. Potential Acquisition by Greece: The fact that the Greek Air Force is in the process of acquiring the F-35 is noteworthy. It speaks to the growing geopolitical importance of the region and the subsequent military investments countries are making.
   3. International Participation: The Athens Flying Week had a strong international presence with Rafale from France, the Eurofighter Typhoon, the Belgian F-16 Viper, the “Knights of the Emirates” from the UAE, and more. This wide array of international participation underscores the global nature of modern airshows and the mutual respect and camaraderie shared among air forces.
   4. Training and Preparation: The comments from the pilots emphasize the immense amount of training and dedication required to safely participate in these events, further highlighting the skill and professionalism of the participants.
   5. Athens Flying Week’s Prestige: Given that this is the largest airshow in the Balkans, it’s evident that Athens Flying Week has carved a significant niche in the aviation community, attracting participants and spectators from around the globe.

   The event was a tremendous success, showcasing not only the technological advancements in aviation but also the skill and dedication of the pilots and crews from around the world. It’s events like these that foster international cooperation and inspire the next generation of aviators.