Varanasi Air Show: Rafale, Chinook thrill spectators with aerial manoeuvres over Ganga

The Indian Air Force (IAF) Grand Air Show, titled "Wings Over Ganga," took place in Varanasi on October 22, 2026, showcasing a variety of aerial manoeuvres performed by fighter jets and helicopters. The event, organized to commemorate the 94th anniversary of the IAF, featured 100 aircraft including 52 fighter jets, 15 transport aircraft, 32 helicopters, and one heritage aircraft.

High-profile dignitaries, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, were scheduled to attend the final day of the show on October 25. Notable performances included the display of fighter jets such as Rafale, Sukhoi-30MKI, Tejas, and Mirage 2000, as well as the Chinook helicopter.

The Kashi formation by Kiran aerobatic team and the tricolour display by Mi-17 helicopters in an Omkar formation were among the highlights, emphasizing India's military prowess. Squadron Leader Ankita Singh expressed pride in her role, emphasizing the event's role in inspiring young people to consider a career in the armed forces.

Brief written by urgent.news from The Hindu's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.