Pilot Graduation Airshow July 21’

Real World Aviation Spotting
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Twice a year, Hatzerim Air Force Base hosts the Israeli Air Force Pilot Graduation Ceremony, marking the end of the rigorous three-year IAF Pilots Course. Graduates become combat officers and earn a degree from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev. This public ceremony, open to families and friends, is a celebration of achievement and a showcase of the IAF’s capabilities.

Among the Staring Aircraft:
• Harvard (T-6 Texan) (Yellow)
• Efroni (T-6 Texan II) (Aerobatic Team)
• Karnaf (C-130)
• Sufa (F-16I)
• Baz (F-15)
• Peten (AH-64 Apache)
• Yanshuf (UH-60 Black Hawk)

Shot with my Canon AE-1 film camera and a 50mm lens, I think these photos capture the excitement and energy of this unforgettable event. Below are my 10 favorite shots!

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*This is a public and wildly known event, therefore no censorship is required of these pictures

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Great pictures! My favorite one is the one with the helicopter carrying the flag

I hope I can be there by the next one lol

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It is mostly for families and friends, but, make sure to contact me if you’re ever interested, might just be able to help ;-)

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Will do!

Also is there any chance to see a Re’em aircraft?

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Yes, some ceremonies they also demonstrate aerial refueling and there’s one fueling some f-16s

BUT - it is not the same every time, due to changing budgets and of course- security reasons.

(Disclaimer because this is the internet: I am only talking about the Graduation Ceremonies explicitly ***)

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Dont worry, as aviation enthusiasts we know that we shouldnt take things out of context

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