How do you actually become a display pilot in the Swedish Air Force and what does the “Airpower” in Zeltweg so special? In conversation with Saab Gripen pilot Major Henrik “Sunshine” Björling.
“Sunshine”, why did you want to become a fighter jet pilot?
I dreamed about it as a child and started flying before I could drive a car. Since then, my passion for aviation has grown steadily. The thrill of flying a fighter jet is the ultimate flying experience – speed, precision and adrenaline come together up there. As a fighter jet pilot, I get to live my dream every day and push the limits of what is possible in the air.
Can this dream also be realized as a display pilot?
Yes, very well indeed. As a display pilot, I can push my flying skills to the maximum. It’s an incredible opportunity to master every detail of flying and constantly strive for perfection. Aerobatic displays are both exciting and demanding and require precise execution to ensure safety at all times.
Can demos and daily operations be compared?
No, aerobatics is something completely different. While demonstrations allow me to improve my flying skills, real missions involve dynamic scenarios such as training against enemies or protecting national airspace. These missions require a broader range of skills tailored to multi-role combat aircraft such as Gripen. Display flights close to the ground, on the other hand, require specialized training to master the unique challenges. https://militaeraktuell.at/bundesheer-in-tirol-hubschrauber-stationierung-ab-2028/
How do you plan your presentations? Do you have a fixed display for all airshows?
My demonstrations are meticulously planned and must also be approved by the squadron commander. The core elements are always the same, but of course I make adjustments depending on the weather and special features of the venue. There are three display pilots in Sweden, including myself, and we do this alongside our regular duties as fighter pilots. Each pilot designs his own routine with slight variations on the maneuvers. Our display season starts in February with a planning meeting, followed by intensive training in April. We fly three to four demonstrations a day and try to improve our performance with the help of video analysis. The airshow season then lasts from May to September and includes demonstrations throughout Sweden and internationally.
“Airpower is exceptional and a real highlight. It is characterized by its venue, the people and the organization.”
You have also flown at the “Airpower”. What does the air show
in Zeltweg so special?
The “Airpower” is exceptional and a real highlight. It is characterized by its venue, the people and the organization. In contrast to airshows on flat terrain, the unique topography allows spectators to better perceive the speed and maneuverability of the aircraft. In addition, the mountainous backdrop offers photographers the chance to take breathtaking and unique pictures that clearly stand out from other airshows.
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