Falcon Leap international airborne exercise to take place in the Netherlands

The international airborne exercise Falcon Leap will take place from September 7 to September 18, 2026. Organized by the 11 Air Mobile Brigade of the Royal Netherlands Army, the drill focuses on training military personnel in the dropping of cargo and paratroopers.

Eindhoven Air Base will serve as the primary hub for departing and returning transport aircraft, with Twente Airport also being utilized. Drop zones include Ginkelse Heide, Hechtelse Heide, and Marnewaard. Due to the nature of the training, aircraft will fly at lower altitudes than usual to ensure pilot readiness, which may result in increased noise for local residents. Flights are expected to occur in two daily blocks, typically between 13:00–17:00 and 19:00–23:00.

This year’s exercise features Sweden as a first-time participant and Portugal, which will operate a C-390 aircraft. The event concludes on September 19, 2026, with the annual commemoration of Operation Market Garden at Ginkelse Heide near Ede.