9 Key Highlights of Air Force Day Celebrations

Akash Deep -

1. What is Air Force Day?

Air Force Day is celebrated annually on October 8 to recognize the bravery and dedication of air force personnel. It commemorates the establishment of the Indian Air Force (IAF) in 1932.

2. Where was the 92nd Air Force Day Celebrated?

The 92nd Air Force Day celebrations took place in Marina Beach, Chennai, after a gap of 21 years. Over 15 lakh people attended the event, making it one of the largest air shows in recent times.

3. What Aircraft Participated in the Air Show?

A total of 72 aircraft participated in the air show, including fighter jets like LCA Tejas, Rafale, Sukhoi 30 MKI, Jaguar Mirage 2000, MiG 29, and vintage aircraft like Dakota and Harvard.

4. What Were the Key Formations in the Air Show?

The air show featured various formations such as Dhwaj by Chetak helicopters, Puyal by Rafale, Pallava by Harvard, Kalam by HTT-40, Kaveri by C 295 and DO 228, Nilgiri by Jaguar, Kartikeye and Pandiyan by Tejas, Marina and Chola by Sukhoi 30 MKI, Dhanush by P-8I and Rafale, Sarang by ALH MK-I, Mahabali by C17 and Suryakiran Aerobatic team, Kanchi by AEW&C and MiG 29, Sangam by LCH, Chera by Dakota and PC 7 aircrafts, and Natraj by IL-78 and Mirage 2000.

5. Who Were the Key Attendees at the Event?

The event was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, and other senior officials from the Armed Forces.

6. What Was the Theme of the 92nd Air Force Day Celebrations?

The theme of the 92nd Air Force Day celebrations was Bharatiya Vayusena: Saksham, Sashakt aur Aatmnirbhar (Potent, Powerful, and Self-Reliant), emphasizing the IAFs commitment to self-reliance and modernization.

7. What Happened During the Air Show?

Despite the humidity and long wait, the majority of the crowd was satisfied with the aerial display. However, three persons fainted and died later during the event due to overcrowding and poor crowd control.

8. How Did the City Prepare for the Event?

The city of Chennai prepared extensively for the event by organizing public transport and ensuring that necessary facilities were available for the large crowd. However, the unmanageable gatherings and lack of water led to some issues during the event.

9. What Is the Significance of Air Force Day?

Air Force Day is significant as it pays tribute to the bravery and dedication of IAF personnel who protect Indias sovereignty and engage in disaster relief operations. The day features grand parades, air shows, and exhibitions that highlight the technological advancements and operational readiness of the IAF.