Bengaluru: AeroIndia 2019 kicked off with a tribute to Wing Commander Sahil Gandhi. The tribute by Indian jets and also from foreign pilots marked the opening day of AeroIndia 2019, on Wednesday, February 20.
As a tribute to the Wing Commander, who died in the tragic accident, three aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) – Tejas, Su-30 Mki and the Jaguar, flew in the ‘missing man’ formation.
Sahil Gandhi, lost his life after a mid-air collision with another plane while rehearsing for the 12th edition of AeroIndia 2019 on Tuesday, February 19. Gandhi was part of the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT).
The Sarang Helicopter Display team dedicated their performances to Sahil Gandhi, and French Air Force pilot Captain Nativel also paid tribute to the pilot amidst showcasing Rafale’s air power.
The air show had 650 exhibitors in its 2015 edition. However, this year the number has reduced to 403, including Indian and foreign exhibitors. According to reports, lack of clarity over the venue is one of the reasons for the drop in number.
The last two days of the air show are open to the public, and it is expected to draw thousands of people.
