First Oshkosh visit since 1986 part of team’s U.S. tour supporting RCAF centennial
The Frecce Tricolori, the military aerobatic team representing the Italian Air Force (ITAF), will be making its first Oshkosh appearance since 1986 when it arrives to participate at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024. The 71st edition of the Experimental Aircraft Association fly-in convention is July 22-28 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh.
The Italian team, formally known as the 313th Aerobatic Training Squadron, is scheduled to be at Oshkosh on Tuesday, July 23, as part of the third North American tour in its history. With the already-announced demonstrations from the Canadian Forces Snowbirds at AirVenture 2024, it marks the first time that the EAA fly-in will have two military demonstration teams in a single year at the weeklong event.
“It’s been nearly 40 years since we’ve welcomed these skilled Italian Air Force pilots to Oshkosh, and to have them here in 2024 adds an unprecedented dimension to this year’s fly-in,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “EAA AirVenture Oshkosh has always been an international event and the presence of Frecce Tricolori further confirms Oshkosh as the place for the aviation world’s annual family reunion.”
Frecce Tricolori – which translates to “Tricolor Arrows” in English – will arrive at Oshkosh on Tuesday, July 23, and is scheduled to participate as part of the afternoon air show. Its aerial demonstrations at AirVenture will be a modified display featuring tight fly-by formations and colorful smoke trails in the team’s Aermacchi MB-339PAN trainer jets.
The team was officially founded in 1961, combining aerobatic units from throughout the Italian Air Force. It consists of 10 pilots (nine formation pilots, plus a solo) from combat-ready operational squadrons throughout the ITAF and is currently commanded by Lt. Col. Massimiliano Salvatore. Frecce Tricolori had previously made North American tours in 1986 and 1992. This year’s tour is in support of the Royal Canadian Air Force centennial that is also bringing the Snowbirds to Oshkosh.
“With the Snowbirds highlighting our celebration of the Royal Canadian Air Force centennial, the numerous military jet demonstrations already committed, and now the Italian military aerobatic team joining us, 2024 will be an unforgettable year at Oshkosh,” Larsen said. “As we prepare for this year’s edition of The World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration, there’s much more to come as well.”
Additional information regarding the Frecce Tricolori appearance and other EAA AirVenture 2024 air show highlights will continue to be announced as it is finalized.
