Mysuru: Unfavourable weather conditions forced the Indian Air Force’s Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team to curtail its aerial display during the Dasara celebrations on Sunday.Despite cloudy skies and overnight rain, the team didn’t disappoint a large crowd as they performed three basic horizontal manoeuvres, drawing applause from a large crowd that had gathered to witness the much-awaited air show.The display, scheduled to begin at 10.30am, commenced at 11.15am due to the weather conditions. Clear skies are essential for performing the team’s intricate aerobatic manoeuvres, particularly its high-altitude vertical formations. Expressing regret over the curtailed performance, Wing Commander Abhimanyu Tyagi of the Surya Kiran team said the team was hopeful of presenting its full nine-aircraft display on Monday, weather permitting.“We were very happy to be here for the auspicious occasion of Mysuru Dasara and were looking forward to performing before the crowd. Unfortunately, the weather forced us to limit the display to three manoeuvres. We regret not being able to complete the full performance,” he said. Despite the restrictions, the pilots managed to present a brief display that was appreciated by spectators who had arrived across the state.Pooja R, an IT professional from Bengaluru, said, “We had come to see the air show, but due to heavy overnight rain and cloudy skies, the programme was delayed. We thank the entire Surya Kiran team for making the effort to perform a few manoeuvres despite the unfavourable conditions.”
Highlights of Mysuru Dasara
The Surya Kiran team specialises in nine-aircraft aerobatic displays and is among only four teams in the world capable of performing with nine aircraft. Based in Bidar, the team generally conducts displays between Sept and March. For the Mysuru Dasara event, the aircraft are operating from Yelahanka.The team comprises 18 officers, including 13 pilots, three engineering officers, one commentator and one medical officer. Group Captain Ajay Dasarathi is the team leader and commanding officer. Recalling last year’s performance in Mysuru, Tyagi said the team had completed the full display. The team is now looking forward to favourable weather on Monday to present its complete repertoire of aerobatic manoeuvres.
