Pula Airport once again hosted an unforgettable event that brought together all generations, from the youngest to the oldest, intending to introduce aviation and the work of the airport. Although bad weather dampened the atmosphere and significantly reduced the number of visitors, the event was warm and full of enthusiasm. It was heartwarming to see entire families, from children in strollers to older generations, exploring the world of aviation together, learning not only about the operations of the airport but also about aviation in general.
Organizing such an event requires tremendous effort and coordination among numerous participants, including the Ministry of Defense (MORH), Croatia Airlines, private companies, and other institutions. Despite the adverse weather conditions, the event achieved its goal – to bring aviation closer to the general public and spark interest in this fascinating branch of technology and science.
One of the most memorable moments of the Open Day was the flyover of the Rafale, which sent chills down the spine of every aviation enthusiast. It was a particularly proud feeling to look up at the sky and reflect on how the emblem on this powerful aircraft’s tail symbolizes Croatia’s strength and sovereignty. Rafale flyovers are always spectacular, and this time was no different – the aircraft showcased its exceptional flying capabilities, leaving the audience breathless.
In addition to the Rafale, the “Pilot Rescue” demonstration performed by Black Hawk and Kiowa Warrior helicopters also drew significant attention. This exercise is always fascinating, especially from the perspective of the capabilities of these aircraft in real-life rescue operations. Visitors saw how helicopters can be crucial in emergency situations, whether for medical evacuations or rescues from hard-to-reach areas.
Another rare but highly impressive moment was the flight of the Canadair CL-415 and FireBoss aircraft, which demonstrated their firefighting capabilities. These specialized firefighting aircraft performed a water-bombing demonstration, which was particularly thrilling for all attendees. Such demonstrations are rarely seen at events like this, making it a real treat for aviation enthusiasts.
The aerobatic team “Krila Oluje” (Wings of the Storm) did not disappoint either, greeting the crowd with a shortened performance. Unfortunately, the weather affected their program as well, and due to poor visibility, they performed a condensed version of their routine.
In addition to the flight program, visitors had the chance to view numerous aircraft up close, including the UH-60M Black Hawk, OH-58D Kiowa Warrior, Air Tractor AT-802, and the Airbus A220 from Croatia Airlines. Furthermore, a model aircraft exhibition was organized, where aviation enthusiasts could see intricately crafted model planes, which particularly delighted younger visitors.
For those who wanted to delve deeper into the world of aviation, interactive workshops, and simulator rides were organized. The simulators were especially popular among younger visitors, who, under the guidance of experts, had the chance to experience what it’s like to be a pilot.
The Ministry of Defense (MORH) and the Ministry of the Interior (MUP) also played an important role at the event, organizing demonstration exercises and presentations of military and police equipment. These demonstrations are always particularly interesting to visitors, as they provide insight into the capabilities and equipment used by Croatian soldiers and police officers. The presentations by the Croatian Air Force (HRZ) stood out, including a panel discussion on career opportunities in the HRZ. These presentations were an excellent opportunity for young people considering careers in the military, police, or aviation to learn more about the opportunities available to them.
One of the most exciting moments of the event was the panoramic flight on Croatia Airlines’ Airbus A220, which also included reporters from AvioRadar. This flight was intended for those who secured their seats by participating in a prize draw. The excitement aboard the aircraft peaked when the captain announced that the flight would last 45 minutes instead of the planned 20. It was particularly touching to see passengers of all generations, many of whom were flying for the first time. In addition to the experience of a low-altitude flight over the Croatian islands (which intermittently appeared beneath the cloud cover), flying in the new aircraft was a special experience in itself.
The overall organization of the event deserves high praise. Pula Airport, alongside its regular operational tasks, managed to organize an event that was not only educational but also inspirational for all generations. Such events play an extremely important role in promoting aviation and technical culture, and it is particularly important to highlight how Croatia is taking serious steps toward promoting aviation, similar to what we see in much larger countries.
The Open Doors Day at Pula Airport once again demonstrated how important the synergy between the airport, institutions, citizens, and industry is for promoting knowledge, collaboration, and the future of aviation. These events not only encourage interest in aviation but also raise awareness of the importance of this field for Croatia’s economy and tourism.
Photo © AvioRadar, Pula Airport
