This year's Christmas tree flights are conducted with expanded Nordic participation as Denmark and Finland join the Swedish Armed Forces (Försvarsmakten). For the first time, the Jas 39 Gripen E will also lead one of the formations, according to the Swedish Armed Forces.
The Christmas tree formations are flown by Jas 39 Gripen and constitute both a cherished tradition and a part of regular flight operations. The Chief of the Air Force, Major General Jonas Wikman, emphasises that the cooperation highlights the operational integration between the Nordic countries:
– "Our joint Christmas tree flights are a visible symbol of what Nordic defence cooperation has developed into – operationally integrated, mutually reinforcing, and anchored in our shared commitment as allies. It is a privilege to fly together in this tradition and a reminder that our combined air power is stronger when we act as one unit," he says in the Swedish Armed Forces' article.
According to the Swedish Armed Forces, the flights provide important training for younger pilots and enable joint planning with Denmark and Finland. Safety dictates the execution, and flights are cancelled if the weather does not permit tight formation or if cloud cover makes them difficult to follow from the ground. This year's first flight is led by the Norrbotten Air Force Wing and passes through northern Sweden and northern Finland. The Finnish Air Force participates with the Lapland Air Command.
Several wings conduct the flights in December. The routes are planned continuously and adjusted according to weather conditions, and exact routes with locations and times are published the day before each flight. Note! The information is updated by the Swedish Armed Forces and also shared on the Air Force's and the wings' social media.
Schedule according to the Swedish Armed Forces:
(All routes are supplemented with locations and times upon update on the Swedish Armed Forces' website.)
Norrbotten Air Force Wing (updated 5/12 07:30)
• Wednesday 10 December (Sweden & Finland)
• Thursday 11 December (Sweden – replaces Monday)
Skaraborg Air Force Wing (first update 8/12)
• Tuesday 9 December
• Wednesday 10 December (reserve day)
• Monday 15 December – TP 84 Hercules
• Wednesday 17 December – TP 84 Hercules
Blekinge Air Force Wing (update 15/12)
• Tuesday 16 December (Denmark)
• Wednesday 17 December (reserve day)