Kosovo’s Aeronautical Club pilots top world rankings - EXCLUSIVE

The Aeronautical Club “Shqiponjat e Kastriotit,” founded in 2017, has developed into one of the leading paragliding clubs in the region, with a strong focus on the discipline of precision landing.

This was said by Lejla Boshnjak, Secretary of the Aeronautical Club “Shqiponjat e Kastriotit”, in an exclusive interview with CE Report.

Over the years, the club has built a strong international reputation, with its pilots achieving top positions in global rankings. Among the most notable results, Lisjeta Thaqi currently holds the number 1 world ranking in the women’s category. Fanol Shala has achieved two European records and one world record and is ranked 4th globally, while Migjen Shala holds a European record and is ranked 6th in the world. In the junior category, Arber Shala holds a world record and is ranked 19th globally, while Anisa Shala is placed 12th in the international women’s ranking.

The club also emphasizes the role of coaching and athlete development, highlighting Fanol Shala as one of the leading coaches in the discipline. Many of the club’s top-ranked athletes have been trained under his methodology, which is credited with raising overall performance standards and strengthening the club’s international competitiveness.

At the national level, the Kosovo team in precision landing consists of five pilots, four of whom come from the club, underlining its central role in shaping the country’s national squad. As a result of these achievements, Kosovo is currently ranked 2nd in the world in this discipline.

International competition is seen as a key factor in athlete development. According to the club, participation at the highest level allows pilots to refine technical skills, adopt advanced training approaches, and continuously improve performance. These experiences are later transferred internally through structured training programs, workshops, and mentorship activities.

Alongside competitive success, the club places strong emphasis on youth development. It operates a paragliding school and is actively engaged with young athletes. For the 2026/2027 period, new nationwide initiatives are planned to expand youth participation in aeronautical sports and strengthen pilot education.

A major pillar of the club’s international activity is the annual “Kastriot Open,” which has been held for nine consecutive years. The 2026 edition is expected to bring together up to 130 pilots, with 98 already registered from around the world. Registration remains open until the start of the competition, making it one of the most inclusive events on the international calendar. The event is recognized as a platform for sporting excellence, international cooperation, and knowledge exchange.

Looking ahead, the club aims to further strengthen Kosovo’s presence in the global aeronautical sports community. Its strategy focuses on sustained international participation, organization of FAI-aligned competitions, infrastructure development, and increased institutional and international support for athlete development.

The club expressed confidence that through consistent work, cooperation, and long-term planning, Kosovo can consolidate its position as a recognized actor in the global precision landing discipline.

Photo: Facebook (Aeronautical Club “Shqiponjat e Kastriotit”)

This interview was prepared by Laura Hoffman