Danish Airshow cancelled again in blow to F-16 farewell celebrations

The Danish Airshow has been cancelled for a second consecutive year, possibly denying airshow fans the chance to say a proper farewell to the country’s F-16 fleet.

Normally held biannually, the Danish Airshow is organised by the Royal Danish Air Force and rotates around their main air bases. Last year’s show was due to be held in Aalborg, but was postponed to 2026 to “prioritise operational tasks”. A new date was set: the 15th June 2025.

However, after several weeks of speculation, organisers announced that the rescheduled event has been cancelled.

“The Air Force is in a rebuilding situation with the implementation of new and upgrading of existing capacities,” they said. “At the same time, we find ourselves in a volatile security policy period that constantly challenges and demands to adjust, adapt and prioritize in order to meet our national and international obligations. In light of that picture, we have been forced to cancel the Danish Air Show 2025.

“This is a day we know many have been looking forward to – not least ourselves. A day, when employees from across the Armed Forces proudly give the people insight into the Armed Forces wide range of tasks and the many job- and training opportunities. It’s a sad but necessary decision.”

Denmark is on the cusp of retiring its fleet of ageing F-16AM/BM Fighting Falcons, which will be passed on to the armed forces of Argentina and Ukraine. The F-35A Lightning II will be the country’s new fighter aircraft.

Although it is possible that an F-16 solo display will be retained for 2025, the Danish Airshow traditionally featured an impressive airfield attack scenario, involving multiple F-16s. With the cancellation of this year’s event, it is now extremely unlikely that such a spectacle will be seen again.

No decision has been taken on whether the Danish Airshow will return in 2026.