IAF’s Suryakiran Team to Dazzle Hyderabad Skies With Live Aerobatic Performance At Wings India 2026 On Jan 28, 29
Formed in 1966, the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team is popularly known as the Ambassadors of the Indian Air Force. Image courtesy: X.com/@Suryakiran_IAF
Marking a rather eventful start of the year 2026, the Ministry of Civil Aviation is set to host Asia’s largest civil aviation event – Wings India 2026 – from January 28–31 2026, at Hyderabad’s Begumpet Airport. During the gathering, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to put its aerial precision and operational excellence on full display.
IAF’s Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT), Asia’s only nine-aircraft formation aerobatic unit, is set to take over the Hyderabad skies on January 28 and 29 as it performs high-intensity aerobatic demonstrations on the opening days of Wings India 2026. The IAF has performed over 700 shows in India and abroad.
The upcoming two-day display by SKAT underscores the IAF’s role in showcasing not just aviation spectacle but also the discipline, training and coordination that form the backbone of India’s air power, according to a report in The Hindu.
What makes SKAT’s upcoming display significant?
Unlike routine public performances, the back-to-back displays in Hyderabad offer a rare opportunity to witness the Suryakirans on consecutive days, highlighting the endurance, sortie planning and precision flying skills essential for modern air combat operations.
Formed in 1966, the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team is widely regarded as the Ambassadors of the Indian Air Force. Based at Bidar Air Force Station, the team flies the BAE Hawk Mk.132, an advanced jet trainer also used to groom fighter pilots for frontline aircraft. The unit comprises 13 pilots, with nine aircraft flying in close formation during each display.
How will the IAF team showcase its skills?
During the Wings India 2026 displays, the Suryakirans are expected to execute signature aerobatic manoeuvres that demonstrate tight formation flying at high speeds; precision rolls, loops and mirror manoeuvres; split-second timing and flawless teamwork. These skills directly mirror the operational competencies required in air defence, strike missions and joint operations.
Renowned for their precision, discipline, and awe-inspiring formations, the pride of the Indian Air Force will paint the sky with speed, symmetry, and sheer adrenaline. Expect roaring engines, flawless manoeuvres, and moments that leave you looking up in wonder.
Wings India 2026
Wings India is Asia’s largest civil aviation exhibition, held biennially and organised by the Ministry of Civil Aviation. While the event primarily focuses on civil aviation, the presence of elite IAF display teams bridges the gap between military capability and civilian aerospace innovation.
“The event will bring together global stakeholders across commercial, business and general aviation, as well as advanced air mobility, showcasing India’s record-breaking aviation growth and shaping the future of a connected, inclusive aviation ecosystem,” the Ministry of Civil Aviation said.
The 2026 edition, scheduled from January 28 to 31, will carry the theme “Indian Aviation: Paving the Future from Design to Deployment.” Officials have indicated that the event will also spotlight Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), including drones and eVTOL platforms, areas where civil-military synergy is rapidly expanding.
