Slovak International Air Fest kicks off at air base in Sliac

The most prestigious aviation event, the Slovak International Air Fest (SIAF 2015), kicked off at the air base in Sliac in central Slovakia on Saturday.

"The 5th anniversary of the SIAF, as a new tradition launched in 2011, will be a big celebration for us -- organizers, and on the occasion of the International Air Fest Days SIAF 2015 the main organizer -- the Slovak Aviation Agency will celebrate its 10th anniversary," announced Hubert Stoksa, director of SIAF 2015.

The list of participants has been extended to include F-15 C aircraft from the U.S. Air Force currently based in Campa Turzia in Romania. These planes can be viewed on the ground. The F-15 C Eagle is a fighter plane designated to operate from land bases.

Among other aircraft, SIAF 2015 will also parade such vintage planes as the P-51 Mustang, as well as new ones such as the JAS 39 Gripen fighter. A Tiger HAD helicopter from Germany and two British BAE Hawk 200 aircraft will also be on display on the ground.

"The weather is wonderful, so we hope, that we could attract more than 120,000 visitors," said Stoksa.

In addition, the organisers have attracted a record number of aerobatic groups, meaning that visitors can look forward to a colourful program. Also this year pilots' mastery and beauty of aircraft will be awarded by the board of specialists, who will decide on a winner of the challenge and the main prize -- Best Display Smik Trophy at the end of the aviation days in Sunday.