IAF's 94th Anniversary: Mirage 2000s & IL-76 to fly in 'Aerial Display-2026' at Varanasi's Namo Ghat
Varanasi, October 7
To mark the 94th anniversary of the Indian Air Force, the skies above the Ganga will witness a grand spectacle as the state government officially declares 'Aerial Display-2026' a State Event.
The event, scheduled for October 22, 23, and 25 at Namo Ghat (with October 26 designated as a standby day), will showcase high-octane aerial manoeuvres featuring Mirage 2000 fighter jet formations, IL-76 heavy transport aircraft, and Mi-17 helicopter units.
To guarantee an unimpeded and safe airspace for the fighter jets, the district administration and Municipal Corporation have issued strict directives to minimise the risk of bird strikes.
The sale and cutting of meat and fish are strictly prohibited within a 20-30 km radius of Namo Ghat from October 19 until the conclusion of the event to prevent bird congregation in the flight path.
Municipal Commissioner Himanshu Nagpal announced a city-wide drive targeting waste and food scraps between October 20 and 26 to control avian activity around the venue.
Barricades, safety barriers, and clear warning signs are being installed along the deep-water zones of the river and key access paths from the ghats to manage dense spectator crowds safely.
Adequate mobile toilet facilities with regular sanitation schedules are being deployed at and around Namo Ghat to serve visitors and devotees.
With extensive security, sanitation, and safety measures in place, Varanasi is set to host a safe and historic aerial showcase celebrating the country's air defense capability.
— ANI
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