Varanasi hosts the IAF Air Show 2026, titled 'Wings Over Ganga', starting today. Held to mark the 94th anniversary of the Indian Air Force, the aerial display runs on October 22, 24 and 25, giving people in Varanasi and nearby districts three days to watch the force's aerobatic teams and frontline aircraft over the Ganga. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is also the Varanasi MP, will attend the show on October 25.

Chinook and Sarang Already Spotted Over Kashi

Excitement has been building for days. Residents spotted the twin-engine, tandem-rotor Boeing CH-47 Chinook heavy-lift helicopter flying above the Ganga. In contrast, the Sarang helicopters flew past Kashi on Sunday. IAF choppers and fighter jets have also started arriving at stations finalised in Varanasi and neighbouring districts such as Ghazipur.

Sarang and Suryakiran: The Headline Acts

The Sarang Helicopter Display Team, formed in 2003, is among the biggest attractions. Known for synchronised formations and precision flying, the team has performed across India and in several countries abroad, and serves as an ambassador of indigenous aviation.

The Suryakiran Aerobatic Team will fly nine Hawk Mk 132 aircraft, built under licence by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Its routine includes loops, barrel rolls, inverted flying and the signature DNA manoeuvre, finished with saffron, white and green smoke trails. Varanasi has never seen a display of this scale.

Aircraft to Watch at the Varanasi Air Show

The line-up also includes the Rafale and Su-30MKI fighters, Tejas, LCH Prachand, IL-76, IL-78, C-295 and AN-32, along with aircraft from the Indian Navy and Indian Army, showcasing joint operational strength. At the city's tea and paan stalls, locals have been saying in Bhojpuri, "Rafelwa bhi awat hao" - the Rafale is joining the show too.

Why Does the Air Show Matters for Defence Aspirants?

Beyond the spectacle, the event offers a look at the training, technology and teamwork behind every manoeuvre, from aircrew to engineers, technicians and ground staff. It also doubles as a youth outreach platform, introducing young people to aviation and the career paths the IAF offers. A nine-aircraft formation holding shape at speed shows exactly the discipline and coordination the force looks for in its officers.

For students preparing for AFCAT, NDA or CDS, Wings Over Ganga is a glimpse of the career ahead. Major Kalshi Classes (MKC), Prayagraj, guides aspirants through these exams and the SSB interview to help turn that ambition into a commission.