SOLOTÜRK stages spectacular training flight over Kyrenia ahead of 20 July celebrations

Residents and visitors in Kyrenia were able to watch a spectacular flypast by an F-16 fighter jet from the SOLOTÜRK aerobatic team today. The training flight was held as part of preparations for the large-scale air show taking place on 20 July to mark Peace and Freedom Day in Northern Cyprus.

SOLOTÜRK is the Turkish Air Force's demonstration team, performing with a single F-16C Fighting Falcon fighter jet. Unlike group aerobatics, the focus here is entirely on the skill of one pilot, who performs advanced aerobatic manoeuvres at speeds reaching supersonic levels. Over the years, the team has become one of Turkey's most recognisable aviation ambassadors and regularly takes part in international air shows.

Preparation for the performance takes place in several stages. First, pilots carry out a familiarisation flight to study the area and landmarks, followed by a full rehearsal designed to be as close as possible to the main performance. It was precisely this kind of training that Kyrenia residents watched over the city's coastline.

The main air show will take place on 20 July at 18:00 near the Atatürk monument in Kyrenia. Thousands of spectators are expected to see a spectacular programme featuring dynamic low-level passes, steep turns, vertical climbs and other highly complex aerobatic elements. The authorities are inviting everyone to attend, while restrictions on flights by civilian drones and other aircraft will be in effect in the area during the preparation and staging of the show.