All the classic Ikarus buses gather in one place in Budapest — don’t miss this unique meeting!
Around a hundred vintage Ikarus buses, including several rare oldtimers, will be showcased this Saturday and Sunday at the 7th Ferihegy Ikarus Gathering in Aeropark, organisers announced on Wednesday.
A world-famous brand
The weekend’s programme promises a variety of attractions: from enjoyable bus rides and a spectacular parade to a rolling exhibition and special engine starts, all paying tribute to one of Hungary’s most renowned and successful brands.
The Aviation Cultural Centre, MÁV Group (Volán), BKV Ltd., the Transport Museum, and several partners will, for the seventh time, bring together iconic Hungarian buses that have shaped the country’s vehicle manufacturing and transportation history at the airport museum.
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The statement recalled that Ikarus is one of Hungary’s internationally recognised industrial names. While the origins of the state-owned bus factory date back to 1895, the Ikarus name itself only came into use after the Second World War.
From the United States to Ethiopia
During the 1970s and ’80s, Ikarus, as a state enterprise, played a key role not only in the markets of Eastern Bloc countries but also globally. The buses were a staple in city and intercity public transport, and for decades, they were a familiar sight at Ferihegy Airport. Models even made their way to places as diverse as the United States, Madagascar, Venezuela, Costa Rica, Guinea, and Ethiopia.
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The beloved “Faros” fleets hold a special place in fans’ hearts among the vintage buses. Therefore, the enjoyable bus rides during the day will mainly feature the iconic Ikarus 55 models, while shuttle services between Népliget and Aeropark will be operated, among others, by the 200,000th bus from the 200 family.
Two very special Ikarus buses on show
The Ikarus 55, one of the factory’s best-known and most successful long-distance and tourist bus models produced between 1954 and 1973, is affectionately nicknamed “Faros” and “Bözsi” thanks to its distinct rear engine compartment.
On Saturday, two extraordinary Ikarus buses that have recently been restored will be unveiled to the public. Private collectors will also present some true rarities.
A stunning static exhibition will be on display, and on Sunday at 4 pm, organisers will host a parade featuring 80 buses. This impressive convoy, escorted by police, will travel along the main streets of Vecsés and Üllő.
Getting to Aeropark comfortably from Budapest
The vast majority of buses will be open for visitors to explore inside and out, with several interiors housing fascinating transport history exhibitions. The event runs from 9 am to 6 pm on both days.
For enthusiasts of industrial history, the weekend will also feature the regular start-up of a 1000-horsepower radial engine from an An-2 aircraft and a jet engine from a Boeing 737.
Due to high interest, organisers recommend visitors arrive using public transport and the shuttle services running between Népliget and Aeropark to ensure a smooth, hassle-free journey to the Ikarus Gathering.
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