Belgian F-16 solo display axed

[Adam]

Sad news from Belgium, with their solo display being axed one year earlier than planned.

[Flightline Uk]

Sad news indeed. It leaves the Belgian Air Force with just the Red Devils and NH90 Caimen SAR Demo as displays for 2024. The Red Devils will almost certainly stand down at the end of 2024 and due to pilot training requirements they could be down to a three ship as well.

[Adam]

On the subject of the Red Devils, in December, they posted:

One more year with the Devil's? Well, you got it! We hope to see you all again in 2024 for the final stretch.

The Belgians have always been such staunch supporters of the wider European airshow scene, the demise of their display teams (with the A109 display folding last year too!) will be keenly felt across many countries.

Back on topic, I note this more extensive comment from the Dream Viper team themselves on their FB page (I can't get it to embed here for some reason).

Dream Viper family,
With a heavy heart, we bring you unexpected news: the F-16 Solo Display Team is reluctantly bidding farewell. Regrettably, we must announce the bittersweet conclusion of our incredible two-year journey.
In 2024 we intended to celebrate 50 years of F-16, 45 of F-16 in Belgium, and 30 of those with Cdt De Vries at the throttle and stick of the Viper.
It's important to note that the decision for this farewell is beyond the control of the Dream Viper Team. While the ending may be sudden, the memories and appreciation for your support will endure. We thank you for being a part of our incredible flight, we regret not having the chance to say goodbye to our magnificent audience in person.
Please stay tuned for more information and details, which will follow in due time.

The inclusion of that final line gives me some hope - albeit not much. Perhaps there might be something - a simple role demonstration that can be rolled out at a handful of events, or a few extra displays from the Thunder Tigers - that could partially offset this terribly sad news during this important anniversary year.

[Adambadger88]

F-16 Fighting Falcon "Dream Viper" pre-flight preparations and full display at AIRPOWER 2022 in Zeltweg, Austria.

Pilot: Captain Steven “Vrieske” De Vries of the Belgian Air Component with over 5000 hours clocked on the F-16.

[CultOfTheWyvern]

Had heard rumors that this was happening, but a real gut punch to see it confirmed, especially in the F-16's 50th year. I was really hoping to catch the Dream Viper at Airpower. Really a shame to see one of the stalwarts of the air show circuit put to rest so abruptly.

Viper by Sean E. Kelly, on Flickr

[Adambadger88]

The Belgian Air Force unexpectedly announced on Feb. 19, 2024, that the F-16 Solo Display Team will not be renewed for the 2024 season.

https://theaviationist.com/2024/02/20/f ... am-closed/

[OliverTop]

The Belgian Air Force unexpectedly announced on Feb. 19, 2024, that the F-16 Solo Display Team will not be renewed for the 2024 season.

https://theaviationist.com/2024/02/20/f ... am-closed/

That was unexpected, and the F-16 was my favorite one...