Czech Mi-24/35 helicopters are being retired. At SIAF, a demonstration is being prepared featuring the finest elements

We used them in Slovakia until 2011. They are still serving in the Czech army now, but this year they will complete their last days of service. The Mi-24/35 helicopters in the Czech Republic are retiring after serving 45 years. The air force of our western neighbours is switching to new equipment, namely American UH-1Y Venom helicopters and AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters.

"The Mi-24/35 helicopters have served for a long time and therefore left an indelible mark in the memory of pilots and other personnel. These helicopters were among the best of their time and will continue to be viewed as such, but times have changed and we need to adapt to that," says Matej Dvořák of the Czech Army.

After last year's farewell to the Slovak Mig-29 fighter aircraft, SIAF is waiting for another retirement. Slovakia will see the Czech Mi-24/35 for the last time. "The farewell will of course take place with a lot of glory, maybe it will be harder for some and better for others, but we are preparing for this decommissioning of older equipment and the transition to new equipment for a longer period of time, so it is not a shock or surprise to anyone." 

We took the opportunity to find out what the Czech side is preparing for its last demonstration. "We have prepared the best elements of piloting that this machine can do and each of them is special in its own way," reveals Matěj Dvořák and continues: "Last year we won the award for the best demonstration in a pair with Mi-171 for which we are grateful and very grateful. In addition, the atmosphere with our "brothers" in Slovakia is always great and we look forward to going there every year."

The flight demonstration with Mi-24/35 helicopter at SIAF was performed by pilot V.Š., who is currently serving in the leadership of 221st Tiger Squadron. He started his career in 2006. He has flown more than 2,000 hours and has demonstrated his skills at many air days in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, as well as in Poland, England, Belgium, Germany and Norway.