Training, teamwork and thrills at Maribor

As the 2025 airshow season draws near, The Flying Bulls take to the skies once again to refine their craft and strengthen their team bonds. Each year, their training camp in Maribor, Slovenia, becomes a cornerstone of preparation, and this year was no exception. Known for its extensive facilities and ideal conditions, Maribor has become a tradition for the team, offering everything they need to perfect their routines before the season kicks off. 
 

Simon Pircher, the team’s Airshow Coordinator, gives an insight into the scale of the preparations that go into an airshow season: “The preparation process starts nearly a year before the first event. We typically organize around 50-55 events a year, including airshows, skydiving exhibitions, and even film shoots,” he says. “This year, we’re excited about events in Norway, Greece, Italy, and various locations across Europe. But the Maribor camp leading up to the airshows is just as critical as the performances themselves.” 
 

With a mix of experienced military and civilian pilots, and technicians from around the world, the training camp at Maribor is not only about fine-tuning flight routines but also about team dynamics. “Maribor is about more than flying – it's a blend of long hours, intense practice and, ultimately, building a strong team,” says Eskil Amdal, Pilot and CEO. The first days are often the most challenging, as pilots work on solo displays, followed by formation training. “Every pilot has their own style,” says Mirko Flaim, Flight Operations Manager and Chief Pilot Helicopters. “The goal is to adapt and push boundaries while maintaining safety. The Maribor environment is the perfect place to hone these skills.”

This year an unforeseen break in the weather brought special challenges and even snow. However, with a concerted effort and adjustments to the schedule, all the training flights were able to take place. Wind conditions were also far from ideal during the first few days and the pilots were challenged to keep to the display line - on the other hand, the difficult situation also provided opportunities for practice and a great training effect.