The largest night educational event for aviation and space fans – 12th “Night at the Institute of Aviation” took place on October 6, 2023. Once again, the event enjoyed great interest – over 52,000 visitors came within 6 hours.
Many interesting machines were showcased during this year’s edition, like the PZL SW-4 Puszczyk helicopter or the M346 Bielik plane. A surprise appearance was made by Łukasz Czepiela and his Carbon Cub. The Polish pilot is the first person to land a plane on the top of a skyscraper and on the pier in Sopot.
For the first time in the history of the event, a Lim-2 jet aircraft flew over the event area twice. The show was organized with the support of airport services and thanks to favorable weather.
All the exhibitors’ promotional stands enjoyed great interest. Attractions were prepared for both the youngest and older visitors.
The static exhibition was accompanied by demonstrations of firing the engines of the TS-11 Iskra, SB Lim-2 and Yak-18 aircraft. The program was also enriched by lectures by representatives of the aviation industry, which attracted large audiences.
As every year, the Institute made its research spaces available – two wind tunnels, numerous laboratories and engine dynamometers were opened for the public. For the first time, the HAASTA unmanned aircraft was presented.
The event was attended by over 100 exhibitors: military air bases, aviation, space and drone companies, foundations, universities, scientific clubs, flying clubs, museums, publishing houses and research institutes.
Special thanks go to our honorary and media patrons and Airbus Polska S.A. for opening part of the area for a static display. As with previous editions, we could count on the huge commitment of the “Porty Lotnicze” and the employees of Chopin Airport in logistical and organizational support and supervision of services. We would also like to thank LS Airport Services for the efficient organization of aircraft towing and the Polish Air Navigation Services Agency for comprehensive support in the aircraft arrival procedure.
Photo credits: Krzysztof Kędracki, Daniel Puciłowski, Leszek Loroch
