THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Some of the finest fighter pilots and aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) will be seen in action in the city next week at a two-day Air Show planned as part of the 30th anniversary celebrations of the Southern Air Command (SAC).
Frontline fighter planes Sukhoi-30s and Jaguars will be part of the show, which is planned at Shangumugham on December 23 and 24, a Defence spokesperson said. The event will be held on both days from 10.30 am to 12 noon.
Another big attraction will be the aerobatic display by Sarang helicopters. ‘Akash Ganga’ - the IAF’s sky diving team - will demonstrate their breath-taking skills that have made them internationally renowned for excellence.
The event will be held on both days from 10.30 am to 12 noon.
A synchronised drill by the Air Warriors Drill team, paragliding and a performance by the Air Force Band will add glitter to the show.
The event is being organised in close coordination with various state government departments and agencies such as the PWD, KSEB, Police, and Fire and Rescue Services. The IAF has cautioned the public against littering the area as it would attract birds and thus be a flight safety hazard. The public have also been requested to use public transport to ensure smooth flow of traffic. IAF had organised a similar show in 2008 to mark the 25th anniversary celebrations.
The then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had inaugurated the SAC on July 20, 1984 at Belhaven Palace in the city. The headquarters was shifted to Akkulam on August 8, 1996. Marking the 30th anniversary celebrations, Air Marshal A P Garud, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, SAC, had installed a time capsule recently at Akkulam. The capsule will be opened on October 8, 2032, on the 100th anniversary of the IAF.
