EXHIBITIONS AND AIR SHOWS
Belgrade has a long-standing tradition of hosting both major and smaller-scale air shows. Before World War II, these events were held at the old Zemun airport. In later years, they took place at the Batajnica Air Base, above the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, at Belgrade Airport (notably during the opening of the Museum of Yugoslav Aviation), and over the Kalemegdan Fortress.
Aeronautical Exhibition – 1925
The first aircraft exhibition in Belgrade took place from October 17 to 26, 1925, at the Miletić Brothers’ mansion, located at Obilićev venac 6. Organized by the main board of the Aero Club, the exhibition showcased aircraft such as the Bleriot (1913), Small Brandenburg, SPAD, Breguet XIV, and Breguet XIX. Also on display were aircraft components, wings, structural sections, engines, radio equipment, bombs, parachutes, and more.
Over the course of ten days, the exhibition attracted more than 25,000 visitors. It was officially opened by Colonel Andra Petrović, president of the Aero Club’s main board, in the presence of high-ranking officials.
First National Exhibition of Aircraft Models – 1936
Held on March 29, 1936, in the newly built headquarters of the Beograd Sokol Society (“Matica”), this exhibition featured contributions from the Yugoslav Air Force and domestic aviation industry. More than 200 glider models were on display, including the “Komar” glider from the “Deveti” group, multiple aircraft engines, the Avia BH-33 fighter, the Zmaj F.P.Z., as well as technical drawings, posters, magazines, aircraft parts, and specialized tools.
The event was opened by General Milan Nedić, Commander of the Air Force.
International Aeronautical Exhibition and Air Show – 1938
As part of the First International Aeronautical Exhibition held in Belgrade from May 28 to June 14, 1938, a large-scale international air show took place at the Belgrade (Bežanija) airport on June 5, 1938.
Post-War Air Shows and Events
Military Parades Featuring Air Force Participation
May 1, 1964
May 9, 1965
May 9, 1970
May 9, 1975
May 9, 1985 — when a large military equipment and weapons exhibition was held at the confluence of the Sava and Danube, with full participation of the Air Force and Air Defense
International Air Show – Batajnica Air Base
Held traditionally in mid-June to mark the Day of the Yugoslav People’s Army, this event features sport, civilian, and military aircraft from across the country, as well as international participants. It is organized biennially (every two years), with shuttle transport provided to Batajnica Air Base. Visitors may also arrive using their own vehicles.
Open Flying Day – Aero Meeting Vršac
This annual event takes place during the first week of September at the Vršac Airfield, hosted by the JAT Flight Academy. Participants include academy cadets, sport pilots, parachutists, Air Force pilots, and international guests. JAT organizes free transport from Belgrade via bus.
Kalemegdan Air Show
Held during summer or early autumn, the Kalemegdan air show is organized by the Yugoslav Aero Club “Naša krila” and the Aviation Association. It features ultralight aircraft, powered hang gliders, paragliders, hot air balloons, parachute jumps, and more. Pilots from the JAT Flight Academy in Vršac are regular participants.
“Dule and Baron” Memorial
This annual competition and exhibition of aviation models and dioramas is held at the Museum of Yugoslav Aviation in late April or early May. It is dedicated to Dušan Popović and Vartkes Baronijan, pioneers of model aviation in Belgrade.