Hyderabad, Dec 8: The skies over the picturesque Hussain Sagar Lake in Hyderabad turned into a canvas of breathtaking aerial artistry on Sunday as the Indian Air Force’s Suryakiran Aerobatic Team showcased their unparalleled flying skills. The event, a commemoration of the first anniversary of the Congress government in Telangana led by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, drew thousands of spectators who were left spellbound by the high-octane performance.
Leading the spectacular display was Group Captain Ajay Dasrathi, heading a nine-member team that executed complex aerobatic manoeuvres with precision. The skies came alive with daring loops, rolls, crosses, and inverted flying, while the aircraft—flying in tight formations separated by a mere five meters—left trails of saffron, white, and green smoke, symbolizing the Indian national flag.
The celebration was attended by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, accompanied by his Cabinet colleagues, senior Congress leaders, and top officials, all gathered at the banks of Hussain Sagar to witness the aerial magic.
The Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) is no stranger to awe-inspiring performances. As Asia’s only nine-aircraft aerobatic team and one of the elite few globally, it has captivated audiences since its establishment in 1996. Over the years, SKAT has conducted more than 700 displays across India and earned accolades internationally at air shows in China, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Singapore, and the UAE.
At the heart of the team’s ethos lies its motto, ‘Sadaiva Sarvottam’ (‘Always the Best’). Each pilot undergoes rigorous and intensive training to master the intricate synchronizations and complex aerobatic sequences, reflecting the Indian Air Force’s professionalism and precision.
The aerobatic team operates Hawk Mk 132 advanced jet trainers, versatile aircraft used for fighter pilot training. Manufactured indigenously by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), these jets stand as a testament to India’s aviation capabilities. Recently, the Hawks underwent an indigenous upgrade at the Indian Air Force’s Base Repair Depot in Nashik. This modification, which includes the integration of smoke pods to produce colored trails, added an extra visual element to the aerial artistry.
Behind the scenes, the success of the display was ensured by a dedicated technical team led by Wing Commander Abhimanyu Tyagi, Squadron Leader Sandeep Dhayal, and Flight Lieutenant Manil Sharma. The flying squadron comprised Deputy Leader Group Captain Sidhesh Kartik, Squadron Leaders Jasdeep Singh, Himkhush Chandel, Ankit Vashisth, Vishnu, Diwakar Sharma, and Gaurav Patel, along with Wing Commanders Rajesh Kajla, Arjun Patel, Kuldeep Hooda, and Allen George.
According to an official defence statement, the aerial extravaganza was part of the Indian Air Force’s Outreach Programme. This initiative aims to inspire young minds, instill a sense of pride in the nation, and showcase the Air Force’s prowess and dedication to excellence.
As the dazzling show drew to a close, the applause and cheers of the crowd echoed around Hussain Sagar, affirming the enduring appeal of the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team and their unmatched skill in bringing the skies to life.