Aero India spectacle in City draws to a close

Aero India spectacle in City draws to a close
Aero India 2005, at which over 350 companies from 32 countries (besides India) participated, was a huge success.

Deccan Herald

Inside, in the air-conditioned chalets, the Russians and the Americans, the Israelis, British and, of course, the Indians inked out their business deals. Outside, over a hundred thousand people craned their necks to watch the war birds flying furiously across the skies. All roads, whatever the shape they may be in, led to the Yelahanka Air Base on Sunday.

Every two years, around this time in the skies above Bangalore, a large heart appears — which is promptly pierced by an equally large arrow. And no matter how many times the boys in the Suryakirans perform the manoeuvre, nobody tires of watching it (which is not to say the necks don’t ache). Neither do they get tired of any of the other displays: the MiG 29 M2, the Jaguars, or the Hawk.

Or of standing for a couple of hours in weather that seemed to have come a few months too early. This time, though, there was a lot more that was new.

The IL-72, fuelling two Mirage 2000s in mid-air, showed that India’s reach in the skies has been extended.

The Sarang team elicited several “ooohs” from the watchers too, by showing off just how much a helicopter was capable of, and the Sea Harrier showed its capacity for suspended animation. The Intermediate Jet Trainer went up for the first time in public, as did the Saras.

The Americans had come with their F-15 Eagles. However, they opted to remain on the ground throughout the air show, though they will fly in formation with the MiGs on Monday.

Thousands of people, family and all, made a beeline to the Yelahanka air base, gathering there from early morning to watch the spectacular show.

According to the organisers, no untoward incident happened during the five-day exposition. Over 350 companies from 32 countries, besides India, participated in the show which commenced on February 9.

Two years is a long time but, if this time’s air show is anything to go by, the wait is certainly going to be worth it.