Sky on fire: Lima '25 roars to life with jet-powered spectacle
LANGKAWI: The deafening roar of fighter jets and the thrum of helicopters once again reverberated across the island as the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 (Lima '25) officially opened its doors today.
The high-octane opening act was set in motion by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who symbolically activated a replica fighter jet throttle on the tarmac of the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre (MIEC), signalling the start of the aerial spectacle.
Moments later, two Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) F/A-18D Hornets thundered overhead, streaking past the main stage in a dramatic flypast while releasing flares, electrifying the crowd and setting the tone for what was to come.
Adding to the adrenaline-fuelled atmosphere, pyrotechnics were launched near the Langkawi International Airport runway, their shockwaves rippling through the air as anticipation mounted.
The aerial display continued with the RMAF's Sukhoi Su-30MKM fighter jets executing precise, high-speed manoeuvres.
This was followed by an impressive demonstration of airlift capability, as two of the RMAF's heavy transport aircraft – the Airbus A400M Atlas and the Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules – soared gracefully over the exhibition grounds, drawing thousands of eyes skyward.
An elegant formation flight by the RMAF Flying Institute's Pilatus PC-7 aircraft followed, showcasing flight discipline and synchronisation.
Next came a coordinated helicopter performance, featuring the agile EC120B Colibri and the formidable EC725AP. The latter stole the show with a synchronised aerial ballet, circling in tight formation as pyrotechnics erupted once again from the runway below.
The opening ceremony culminated in a grand aerial procession, with all participating aircraft – from fighter jets and transport planes to helicopters – flying in formation directly above the prime minister.
Now in its 17th edition since its inception in 1991, the Lima exhibition will run for five days from today and is expected to attract thousands of local and international visitors.
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