F-16 Jets Fly Low Over Nicosia Ahead of Independence Day Parade

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The fighter jets and helicopters were conducting scheduled tests for the 1 October military parade.

Two F-16 fighter jets carried out a low-altitude flight over Nicosia at around 11am on Tuesday, prompting concern among members of the public.

The flyover was part of scheduled preparations for the 1 October military parade marking the 66th anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Cyprus, according to the National Guard General Staff.

Flights part of scheduled preparations

The National Guard General Staff had announced in advance that low-altitude flights would take place over Nicosia on Tuesday, 29 September 2026, at around 11am as part of tests ahead of the parade.

A number of helicopters were also operating in the area’s airspace at the same time.

The National Guard said the flights formed part of the planned preparations and had assured the public that there was no cause for concern.

Video shows F-16 flyover

Video footage of the two F-16s flying over the capital was posted on the Cy Police Checkpoints Facebook group.

The military parade is scheduled to take place on 1 October, as Cyprus marks the 66th anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic’s independence.