The weather was nicer for the spectators on the second day of the Air Show and the programs could start just on time, at 9.00 o’clock in the morning. Visitors were continuously arriving to the Airbase and the best places had been filled up quickly. There were many people at other display spots, both adults and children who could familiarize with military instruments and weapons.

Children used every opportunity; they climbed into everywhere and asked questions from the soldiers. The ceremonial opening was held by the orchestra of the HDF 5th ‘István Bocskai’ Infantry Brigade, which attracted everybody’s attention with their impromptu show. The official beginning of the Air Show was marked by the Hungarian national anthem and by the welcome speech of Lieutenant General Tibor Benkő, Chief of Defence Staff of HDF, who stressed that flying is coeval with the history of mankind. Since becoming human, the desire to fly and to ascend has always been dealt with. Flying could be realized in ancient China first, where kite-flying was invented. The dream of flying could only be realized in modern age, when mankind invented the first fix-winged aircraft, then the helicopter. What happened since then in the fields of aviation development is an enormous quality change, Lieutenant General Tibor Benkő added. This change makes it possible for the pilots to disprove the laws of physics.

The event is an outstanding one, emphasized Lt-Gen. Tibor Benkő, not just because we celebrate the 100th anniversary of Hungarian military aviation, and Hungarian powered aviation and we also pay tribute to the 30th anniversary of Hungarian space flight. Another significance of the event is that visitors can get acquainted with the equipment and qualification of HDF soldiers. The state of HDF and what we have reached so far can be seen. “I am proud of all soldiers serving in the Hungarian Defence Forces”, Lieutenant General Tibor Benkő, Chief of Defense Staff of HDF added. He appreciated the work of all those several thousands soldiers who prepared, organized and helped to realize the event.

The International Air and Military Show 2010 also provided the opportunity for the VIII. Soldier-Family Meeting to happen, which was cancelled due to this year’s flood-protection efforts. Lt-Gen. Tibor Benkő, had wished that every visitor would have a great time among the soldiers, and gather timeless memories at Kecskemét Airbase. After the ceremony, the military aircrafts started their show, meanwhile, in front of the tribune the HDF 25/88 Light Mixed Battalion held a combat display.