Nagpur: Get ready for a breathtaking spectacle in the skies! After a seven-year hiatus, Nagpur is set to witness the thunderous roar of aircraft, gravity-defying aerobatics and precision flying as the Indian Air Force’s celebrated Sarang Helicopter Display Team and Suryakiran Aerobatic Team prepare to enthral the Orange City on November 22.
The much-awaited date has been announced by both teams through their official social media accounts, sparking excitement among aviation enthusiasts and residents eager to witness the return of the spectacular aerial extravaganza. However, the Indian Air Force has not yet officially communicated the programme details at the local level.
Synchronised helicopter manoeuvres, high-speed fighter-like dives, breathtaking aerial formations and aircraft painting the sky in the colours of the Tricolour promise to make the event an unforgettable experience.
The Sarang team, renowned for its precision and extraordinary coordination, will showcase spectacular manoeuvres using its Advanced Light Helicopters. Meanwhile, the Suryakiran pilots, celebrated for their fearless flying and impeccable formation discipline, will unleash a dazzling display of aerobatics, executing intricate formations and thrilling manoeuvres at high speeds.
For Nagpur, the proposed air show is more than just an aviation spectacle—it is a long-awaited reunion with the IAF’s aerial artistry.
2019 Air Fest still fresh in public memory
Nagpur last witnessed a major Air Fest in 2019, organised to commemorate the 87th anniversary of the Indian Air Force and the 65th anniversary of its Maintenance Command in the city. The event had transformed the skies into a spectacular theatre of military aviation, drawing huge crowds.
The Suryakiran Aerobatic Team opened the aerial proceedings with stunning Diamond and Delta formations. The pilots also recreated formations resembling fighter aircraft such as the Mirage, MiG and Jaguar, leaving spectators spellbound.
The spectacle continued with a dramatic demonstration by Garud commandos, who descended from a helicopter into a simulated enemy territory to execute a tactical operation. The IAF’s Akash Ganga skydiving team then leapt from approximately 7,000 feet, demonstrating remarkable precision through controlled descents and accurate landings.
The Sarang Helicopter Display Team subsequently stole the show with its breathtaking synchronised manoeuvres, showcasing the extraordinary coordination and flying skills of its pilots.
Rafale in Nagpur skies?
While the participation of Sarang and Suryakiran has generated considerable anticipation, aviation enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting another possible attraction: the appearance of Rafale fighter jets.
Will Nagpur get to witness the formidable Rafale displaying its speed, agility and combat capabilities? There is no official confirmation yet.
The 2019 Air Fest had featured a Sukhoi fighter jet, whose powerful aerial display had attracted enormous public attention. A similar fighter aircraft appearance this time could add an electrifying dimension to the November 22 spectacle.
