Airpower 2026 in danger: Austerity measures threaten flying show in Zeltweg!

Airpower 2026 in danger: Austerity measures threaten flying show in Zeltweg!

The future of the renowned air show Airpower 2026 is on the brink, since the Federal Ministry of State Defense (BMLV) is faced with considerable austerity measures. In times of a budget hole, the Ministry will have to save a total of 91.8 million euros by 2026, which leads to uncertainty about the implementation of the event, which was to take place regularly in September 2026. This reports 5min.at.

The Airpower most recently enjoyed great popularity in September 2022 when around 250,000 visitors flocked to Zeltweg to admire the impressive flight performances of 206 aircraft from over 20 nations. The machines shown included the C-17 Globemaster from the USA and the Airbus A-400M from Germany. With costs of around 4.2 million euros, however, the event was not without financial challenges.

austerity measures of the Ministry of Defense

As part of a comprehensive savings plan, the ministries, including the BMLV, have to save 1.1 billion euros in the administrative effort. The defense sector has the highest share of 1.1 billion euros. Savings are to be achieved by reducing additional and special services, tightening for business trips as well as cuts in marketing and advertising. These measures could also endanger the future of Airpower 2026, since the decision on the implementation must be made urgently, the planning should begin in advance.

Minister of Defense Klaudia Tanner has so far been vague for the possible cancellation of the Airpower 2026. According to puls24, it is currently being examined. Gerold Fraidl, press spokesman for the Styrian governor Mario Kunasek, confirmed that no specific date has been set for 2026 and that the flight show has to be planned at least one year in advance.

Review of past suspensions

The Airpower has an eventful history in which it suffered from financial aspects in the past. The event was first suspended in 2015 and postponed in 2016. In 2019 there were again considerations for the cancellation, which were ultimately rejected due to advanced plans and regional added value. After a panda -related break, the Airpower 2022 was able to take place again with the aim of holding up in the future in the future.

The current situation, however, is worrying in view of the financial challenges with which the Ministry of Defense is faced with. Ministeries are required to save in other areas. As reported [the press] (https://www.diepresse.com/19261528/wo-diemini- Ministeries-e-e-ein-EURO-Euro-Sparo-Koennen), only some of the expenditure have scope for cuts, while many are reserved for necessary tasks. In view of this situation, it remains to be seen whether Airpower 2026 can actually take place or whether it falls victim to the austerity course.