Fresh off Chennai airshow success, IAF’s helicopter team Sarang heads to Bahrain from Coimbatore

CHENNAI: After enthralling lakhs in Chennai during the airshow less than a month ago, the Indian Air Force’s much-vaunted helicopter aerobatics team is now gearing for an encore, this time in Bahrain.

Sarang, the five-helicopter team of helicopter crew, displayed their expertise during the Chennai airshow on October 6. A record crowd of about 15 lakh people who gathered on the Marina beach on that day were left gasping in delight, as the helicopters whizzed past in various formations and complex manoeuvres.

After a short break, the team left IAF’s Sulur air base in Coimbatore on the massive C-17 transport aircraft on Sunday and reached Bahrain, where the international airshow is slated to start from November 13.

In a post on X, the Indian Air Force said, “Taking flight to Bahrain. The Sarang Helicopter Display Team lifted off from Sulur Airbase, packed into a mighty C-17 along with their vibrant peacock-coloured helicopters and essential gear.” “A swift night-loading ensured they’re Bahrain-bound. Get set for awe-inspiring performances at the Bahrain International Air Show 2024 at Sakhir Airbase from November 13,” the post read.

The Sarang Helicopter Display Team was formed in 2003 and their very first International public performance was in 2004, at Asian Aerospace Show Singapore.

Initially formed and raised as a three-helicopter formation, the Sarang team now boasts of a thrilling five-helicopter display and has performed over 1,200 displays at more than 385 venues all around the globe.

According to the official website of Bahrain International Air Show (BIAS) 2024, The International Airshow was established in 2010 to create a distinctive event. BIAS offers the industry a platform for high-level corporate hospitality, unique access to military and civil delegations, and showcasing technological innovations to potential buyers around the world.

(With inputs from ANI)