Sarang and Suryakiran air show set for Nagpur on November 22 after seven years

The sound of aircraft is set to return to the skies over Nagpur after a gap of seven years. The Indian Air Force's Sarang Helicopter Display Team and Suryakiran Aerobatic Team are preparing to perform over the Orange City on November 22.

The two teams announced the date on their official social media accounts. The announcement has excited aviation enthusiasts and residents who want to see the aerial display return. However, the Indian Air Force has not yet officially given details of the event locally.

The show is expected to feature coordinated helicopter flights, fighter-style steep dives, aerial formations and aircraft tracing the colours of the tricolour in the sky.

The Sarang team is known for its precision and tight coordination, and will perform with its Advanced Light Helicopters. The Suryakiran pilots are known for fearless flying and excellent formation discipline. They will present complex formations and thrilling manoeuvres at high speed. For Nagpur, the proposed air show is not just an aerial spectacle but a reunion, after a long gap, with the Air Force's aerobatics.

Nagpur last saw a major air festival in 2019. It was held on the 87th anniversary of the Indian Air Force and the 65th anniversary of its Maintenance Command in the city. It drew a large crowd.

That event was opened by the Suryakiran team with diamond and delta formations. The pilots also flew formations resembling fighter aircraft such as the Mirage, MiG and Jaguar, which left spectators amazed.

The Garud commandos performed next. They landed from a helicopter in a mock enemy area and carried out a tactical operation. The Air Force's Akash Ganga skydiving team then jumped from about 7,000 feet and showed their skill with controlled descents and precise landings. Finally, the Sarang Helicopter Display Team won the most applause with its coordinated flights.

With Sarang and Suryakiran confirmed, expectations have risen. Aviation enthusiasts are also waiting for one more possible attraction, the appearance of Rafale fighter jets. There is no official confirmation yet on whether Nagpur residents will see the Rafale display its speed, agility and combat capability.

A Sukhoi fighter jet took part in the 2019 air festival, and its powerful display drew much attention. If a similar fighter jet appears this time too, the November 22 show could be even more thrilling.