Two notable aircraft types have performed at a foreign airshow for the very first time as the innaugural edition of the Egypt International Airshow takes off.
Held on the 3rd-5th September in El Alamein, the Egypt International Airshow is the largest ever held in the country, but is open only to trade visitors, the media and VIPs.
Russia and Qatar dispatched large contingents to the show. This included China’s national aerobatic team, August 1st (Ba Yi), flying the J-10CY/SY. The team has become something of a regular fixture in the Arabic-speaking world, with potential export orders in the offing to both Saudi Arabia and Egypt. This was their first time in Africa, and while rumours abound of Egypt firming up a purchase, details remain scant.
Also from China, the Xi’an Y-20A transport aircraft appeared both in the flying and static display. Although the type has appeared on static display at a handful of international airshows, this was its first time taking to the air to perform for a foreign audience.
Perhaps the most notable debut, however, was the TAI Hürjet from Turkey. This is Turkey’s first attempt at a wholly-indiginous combat-capable jet, which is being produced initially as a trainer. In due course, the Hürjet will also be used as a light attack platform and as the replacement for the NF-5 Freedom Fighters used by the Turkish Stars aerobatic team.
The Hürjet made its first flight last year, and its airshow debut came at Teknofest Izmir 2023, where a prototype flew in formation with the Turkish Stars. A full flying display debut was at one point planned for the Farnborough International Airshow 2024, but was later deferred until the Egypt International Airshow.
Other flying display participants included the Saudi Hawks, Silver Stars, French Air Force Rafale C, UAE Air Force F-16E and Mirage 2000-9, Leonardo M-346 and the Aero L-39NG.