Air Show: Peruvian Air Force holds pre-event aerobatics, parachuting rehearsal

Photo: ANDINA/Carlos Lezama

Photo: ANDINA/Carlos Lezama

13:24 | Lima, Apr. 23.

The Peruvian Air Force (FAP) on Thursday held a full rehearsal of aerial maneuvers and parachuting displays at Las Palmas Air Base, in Lima's Surco district, ahead of the BALP Lima 2026 Air Show to be held this weekend.

During the session, which began at 11:00 a.m., attendees watched training exercises by the renowned U.S. aerobatic team Viper Demo Team.

The latter is participating with one of its F-16 Block 40 aircraft, whose skill and speed drew the attention of spectators.

It should be noted that the aircraft acquired by Peru from U.S. company Lockheed Martin are the F-16 Block 70 and will arrive between 2029 and 2030, according to United States ambassador to Peru, Bernie Navarro.

Likewise, parachuting drills were carried out by the “Caballeros Azules” (Blue Knights), a FAP Special Forces team, which simulated high-altitude descents with the deployment of flags and colored smoke as part of the show they will present to the public soon.

The rehearsal is part of preparations for the 18th BALP Lima 2026 Air Show, a free family-friendly event set to take place this Saturday, April 25, and Sunday, April 26, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the same air base.

In remarks to Andina News Agency, Peruvian Air Force Colonel Marco Antonio Muñoz invited the public to attend the air show, which will bring together national and international pilots for a day of aerobatics, skill, and excitement in Lima's skies.


Attendee entry times

In remarks to Andina News Agency, FAP Major July Coca—spokesperson for the BALP 2026 Air Show—said all Lima residents are invited to the celebration.

The official reiterated that admission is free, and noted that between 25,000 and 30,000 attendees are expected over both dates (Saturday, April 25, and Sunday, April 26).

The FAP major estimated that the number of participating FAP officers, technicians, and non-commissioned officers over both dates, together with volunteer military personnel, totals 5,000 people.

Entry will be pedestrian-only through San Roque and Jorge Chavez Avenue.

Vehicles will not be allowed, including cars, motorcycles, or bicycles. Visitors must present a physical ID card and register through the Peruvian Air Force link, where a QR code is available.

The air show will take place in two sessions: from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. During the latter period, the main demonstrations held in the morning will be repeated.

“The only thing we ask of people is that, if they were unable to register, they should come with their National Identity Document (DNI), because it is an essential requirement for entry,” the spokeswoman said.

(END) LIT/MVB

Published: 4/23/2026