As Taiwanese Olympians depart from Paris with an impressive performance of two gold and five bronze medal wins, President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) instructed a special tribute for the returning athletes and their support team. Three F-16 fighter jets were deployed on Tuesday to welcome the group and serve as an escort of honor upon their return to Taiwan.
The Presidential Office noted that the President wanted to show appreciation to the athletes' outstanding achievements and the hard work of the entire support team.
The Air Force’s escort team took off around 5 a.m. to meet the returning Taiwanese delegation on Evergreen flight BR88. Although the athletes have been flying back in different batches, the largest group returned early Tuesday morning. Flares were also released as the fighter jets escorted the plane back to Taiwan. The delegation safely landed at 7:10 a.m.
President Lai will meet with the athletes and their delegation on Friday at the Presidential Office. A parade will follow and the public is invited to join in the celebrations and honor Taiwan’s Olympic athletes together.