Tamil Nadu - Madurai   

First-ever air show to enthral city residents

S. Sundar

`Surya Kiran' to present breathtaking performances

MADURAI: The first-ever air show by 'Surya Kiran,' the aerobatic team of Indian Air Force, is all set to steal the hearts of Maduraiites.

"Aerial Ballet" as the IAF calls it, the Surya Kiran (Rays of the Sun), will enthral the audience with its nine-aircraft formation that would display some breath-taking performances.

Fifth show

The fifth air show in the Southern Command of the IAF, coinciding with its platinum jubilee celebration, will be a virtual treat to all, the young and old alike.

During the 30-minute show, nine Kiran Mark II jet trainer aircrafts will display 15 manoeuvres — low-altitude high-speed flying, inverted flying, diamond formation, among others, says Wing Commander, Shah.

On its precision, Wing Commander, S.K. Sharma, says, "The flight formation would fly at a speed of 150 to 550 km per hour.

The flights will be so close that the distance between two aircrafts will be just five metres."

Shower of petals

A Mi 8 helicopter, used in search and rescue operations during natural calamities, will mark the commencement of the show by showering flower petals on the audience.

The show is just to display the flying skills of our pilots.

By coming closer to the public, we would like to motivate youngsters of the region to join us to serve the nation, says Mr. Sharma.

The show would start at 4.30 p.m. on Wednesday.

The district administration has made elaborate arrangements to accommodate thousands of viewers at Viraganur on the city outskirts along the Madurai-Ramanathapuram highway.

The Collector, S.S. Jawahar, said that adequate security arrangements with barricades would be provided. Besides, facilities such as lighting, water supply and proper parking areas would be established.

Special buses

Special buses would be operated from various places, Mr. Jawahar said.

A rehearsal of the show would be held between 9 and 10 a.m. on Tuesday.

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