Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team to fly nine Hawk Mk 132 aircraft on Oct. 18 and 19

Mysuru: An Indian Air Force (IAF) helicopter conducted an aerial survey of the Torchlight Parade Grounds at Bannimantap this morning ahead of Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team’s (SKAT) performance as part of the Dasara Air Show on Oct. 18 and 19.

The Air Show is scheduled for 10.30 am on both days, with nine aircraft set to perform high-speed aerobatic manoeuvres, showcasing precision, power and teamwork. Sources said, the helicopter had flown in from Bengaluru as part of routine pre-flight preparations. The survey covered the venue and surrounding areas to assess and map terrain coordinates, identify potential hazards and check for obstacles that could pose a risk during low-altitude manoeuvres.

The inspection also checked for high-tension power lines, mobile phone towers, cranes, high-rise buildings and other structures that could affect the aircraft’s flight path. The exercise was aimed at familiarising the team with the venue and ensuring safe flying conditions.

Close formation flying

According to an IAF press release issued this morning, the team will fly nine Hawk Mk 132 aircraft, manufactured under licence by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), in a series of aerobatic manoeuvres.

Signature manoeuvres, including loops, barrel rolls, inverted flying and the iconic DNA manoeuvre, will showcase the pilots’ precision, coordination and synchronisation. Flying in close formation, the nine aircraft will also leave saffron, white and green trails in the sky, adding to the spectacle.

Established in 1996, SKAT has represented the IAF and the country at Air Shows and public events across India and abroad. With more than 850 displays to its credit, the team has become a symbol of the IAF’s flying skills, discipline and professionalism, inspiring aviation enthusiasts and young Indians.

Every display is the result of extensive training, meticulous planning and close coordination between the pilots and support team, the release said.