In Pictures | Throwback to Chennai's first air show in 2003

As the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) mega air show fever has gripped Chennai city, let us take time to look back at the Chennai’s first show held in the year 2003.

Chennai city gears up to witness the mega air show being conducted by the Indian Air Force (IAF) on October 6, 2024 (Sunday). Putting out a colourful display, 72 functional and vintage fighter jets, transport aircraft and helicopters will soar in the Chennai skies. The scintillating event being organised this year is also an attempt to enter the Limca Book of Records for attracting the largest gathering for an air show. More than 15 lakh spectators are expected to attend.

Also Read: Chennai air show 2024: Where and how to watch

Twenty one years ago, Chennai, for the first time, played host to an air show conducted by the IAF on September 6, 2003. The spectacular display of Sukhoi SU-30s, Jaguars, MiG-29s, Chetak helicopters was witnessed by over a million people gathered along the shores of Marina Beach. The formation aerobatics team Surya Kiran, sky-diving team Akash Ganga also enthralled the audience who were in for a visual treat. The then Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu J. Jayalalithaa and Air Marshal S. Krishnaswamy were the chief guests for the one-day event. 

Here are the glimpses from the rehearsals and the air show in September 2003, from The Hindu archives:

Published - October 05, 2024 10:10 am IST