Fly Party 2025, held on June 28 at Bagnoli Airfield near Padua, concluded to widespread acclaim. The event ran smoothly from start to finish, striking the perfect balance of organization, respect, and a genuine passion for aviation—enthusiasm shared equally by participants and the public. Event organizer and Historical Aircraft Group (HAG) founder Andrea Rossetto shares his reflections on this year’s gathering.
By Andrea Rossetto, HAG founder nd Vice-President – Photos by Juri Badalini
As I lay in the shade of a quiet Sardinian alley, soothed by a gentle breeze and the rhythmic sound of waves, my thoughts drift back to just a few days ago—to a sunlit field brimming with a stunning array of historic aircraft. The serenity of my current surroundings stands in stark contrast to the buzz and energy of the Bagnoli Airfield during FLYPARTY, where, over a single weekend, hundreds of airplanes and thousands of people come together in celebration of flight.
Now in its 16th edition, FLYPARTY has become the quintessential gathering of the Historical Aircraft Group (HAG), an association founded in 2004 to unite enthusiasts, promote restorations, and fly history back into the skies. What began in 2009 at Thiene Airport with a modest gathering of about 30 members and a handful of aircraft has grown into a robust community of nearly 300 members and over 180 airworthy vintage planes.
Over the years, FLYPARTY evolved into an international airshow, even hosting aerobatic teams from across northern Europe during its time at Montagnana. But with growth came challenges—the operational complexity of managing a massive event fell heavily on my shoulders. While the show attracted up to 300 aircraft in a single weekend, the stress and expectations began to outweigh the joy. In 2019, with HAG finally securing its own permanent base of operations at the newly designated LION airfield, “Dominio di Bagnoli,” we took the opportunity to reshape FLYPARTY into something more intimate, focused on friendship, camaraderie, and authentic aviation passion.
Bagnoli might lack some of the infrastructure of larger venues, but it offers something more valuable: a return to the roots. With a 1,200-meter, perfectly groomed grass strip surrounded by bucolic scenery, the airfield has proven itself an ideal home for HAG and FLYPARTY alike. The emphasis here isn’t on spectacle, but on meaningful connection—catching up with an old friend can be more rewarding than the most dazzling display.
This year, we refocused on our strengths. Following the challenges of last year’s attempt to bring the “D-Day Squadron” back to Italy, the 2025 edition of FLYPARTY returned to its essence. Held during the last weekend of June—a time that has consistently delivered reliable weather—we prioritized participation from our own impressive fleet and membership.
Outreach beyond the aviation enthusiast circle remains a priority. It’s our mission to bring aviation to the broader public and potentially inspire new restorers, pilots, and preservationists. In this spirit, we forged a valuable partnership with the Bagnoli di Sopra Pro Loco, who handled food, beverages, and parking logistics. This collaboration not only eased organizational pressures but significantly enhanced the overall visitor experience—a model we’ll continue in future editions.
Another major milestone in 2025 was the event’s inclusion in ASI’s prestigious “Circuito Tricolore,” a national recognition reserved for standout heritage events. As the only ASI-affiliated aircraft association, HAG proudly received this honor, adding an official stamp to what has always been a labor of love. “This is a source of great pride and a testament to ASI’s trust in us,” said HAG President Stefano Gambaro.
The 2025 flying program offered a rich variety of aircraft and performances. The undisputed star was the massive Caproni Ca.3R from the Jonathan Collection, piloted by Fabio Consoli and Daniele Beltrame, fresh from an appearance in Jesolo. Joining them in a dramatic World War I-themed dogfight were Fabio Iannacone in the Spad XIII and Mauro Di Biagio flying the Fokker Dr.I—a thrilling tribute to the legendary aces of the Great War
Interestingly, the Caproni’s appearance was nearly canceled due to a last-minute engine issue after the Baracca Day event. Thanks to the tightly knit support network within our aviation family, the aircraft was ready in time—a reminder of the passion and teamwork that defines our community.
Other highlights included the colorful Sukhoi Su-31M of Guido Racioppoli, its thundering Vedeneyev M14 engine and triple-blade prop making for a jaw-dropping performance. The ever-reliable Maurizio Costa flew his Pitts S2 in support of Acronadia, which raises funds for pancreatic cancer research—a now-beloved FLYPARTY tradition. We also welcomed the elegant Stearman of Giovanni Carugno and an exciting joint display from our own Yak-52 pilots, Davide Guida and Umberto Bertolotti, along with the T-Take Team from Jesolo.
What truly defined FLYPARTY 2025, however, were the formations—both planned and spontaneous. From the Boredom Fighters flying in harmony with my Cessna O-1 to the graceful Piper J3/L4 group led by General Alberto Rosso, the sky over Bagnoli was filled with unity and nostalgia. One standout formation, the “FRATI,” featured rare and unique aircraft like the Nibbio F14, Picchio F15, and the Falchi F8, with participants from France and Germany adding an international flair.
Notable visitors included Aero Club d’Italia President Stefano Arcifa, who expressed sincere appreciation for our work, and AOPA, which held its national assembly on Saturday. Representatives from CAP, AIPM, GAVS Vicenza, and many others joined the celebration—none more spirited than Aero Club Milano, who yearly turn the Bagnoli airfield into a vibrant encampment of tents and aircraft.
By all accounts, this was one of the best FLYPARTY editions yet. The success is thanks to our growing network of support: the Padova Aero Club handling bureaucratic matters, MAF director Sergio Maron’s steady guidance, the “biga” team managing high traffic volumes, and the ever-charismatic voice of commentator Sergio Cobuccio. Special thanks also go to the “Ali di Bagnoli” volunteers and, now officially, the local Pro Loco.
For me, FLYPARTY is a piece of my heart. Since the very first edition, it has kept me up at night with anxiety and excitement in equal measure—but the satisfaction it brings is unparalleled. See you in 2026. For more information about the Historical Aircraft Group, visit www.hag-italy.it
