Airborne operations simply wouldn’t be possible without a reliable jump platform and for more than 70 years, one aircraft has proven itself as the ultimate workhorse of the skies. Thanks to the Royal Canadian Air Force, visitors to the 2026 International Sanicole Airshow will have the chance to witness this legendary giant during an impressive flypast: the mighty Lockheed C-130 Hercules.
Known in Canadian service as the CC-130, this iconic aircraft embodies everything the Hercules family is famous for: versatility, rugged reliability and unmatched durability. Canada welcomed the Hercules into service back in 1960, and over the decades it has continuously evolved through numerous upgrades to remain one of the most capable transport aircraft in the world.
Operating across Canada’s vast and often extreme environments, the CC-130 has built an outstanding reputation. The first aircraft delivered were the C-130B variants, followed by several later versions including the C-130H, a type that also faithfully served with the Belgian Air Force. Today, the fleet relies on the modern and powerful C-130J, featuring advanced avionics and a state-of-the-art glass cockpit. In total, 29 CC-130 aircraft currently serve with the Royal Canadian Air Force, supporting missions around the globe.
At Sanicole, the CC-130 will roar overhead after deploying the spectacular Canadian Armed Forces SkyHawks Parachute Team, giving spectators the perfect opportunity to see this legendary airlifter in action.
Make sure to look up and give the crew a wave as they thunder past the crowd at the International Sanicole Airshow in Hechtel-Eksel, Belgium on 12–13 September 2026.
