Bareilly, 15 October 2026: The Indian Air Force’s Sarang Helicopter Display Team has returned to Bareilly after a gap of eight years to conduct a series of aerial demonstrations from 13 to 17 October 2026. The team last performed in the city in 2018. Public displays for students and invited members of the civilian community are scheduled on 15 and 17 October.
The five-day programme is being held at the Air Force Station, Bareilly (Trishul Airbase). On 13 October, the team conducted practice sessions and coordination exercises focusing on synchronised aerial sequences and close-formation manoeuvres. On 14 October, as part of an Air Force Day-related air show at Trishul Airbase, the team performed for approximately 15 minutes, executing formations including arrowhead, India (straight-line), and diamond, along with the signature Dolphin Leap.
Helicopters maintained altitudes of roughly 50 to 150 metres for ground visibility. Squadron Leader Gokul, captain of one of the aircraft, noted that the team’s role also includes joint exercises and humanitarian missions, while another pilot interacted with students after the display.
Sarang operates five indigenously designed and manufactured Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv aircraft. It is among the few military helicopter aerobatic teams in the world and is frequently described as the world’s only five-helicopter display team. Established in 2003, the team derives its name from the Sanskrit word for peacock, reflected in the vibrant colour scheme of its helicopters. Its routines emphasise close-proximity flying, precision, discipline, and teamwork.
The displays are intended to showcase the capabilities of India’s indigenous aerospace technology and the operational proficiency of IAF pilots. They also aim to familiarise young audiences with military aviation and encourage interest in science, technology, aerospace engineering, and careers in the armed forces. Students from schools and colleges, along with invited civilians, form the primary audience.
Prior to the Bareilly engagement, the team represented the IAF at the second edition of the El Alamein International Airshow in Egypt from 8 to 10 September 2026. There it demonstrated its signature Dolphin Leap and introduced a new manoeuvre, the Spot Stall Turn, highlighting both pilot skill and the agility of the ALH Dhruv on an international platform.
The return of Sarang to Bareilly provides a rare opportunity for the local community to witness high-precision helicopter aerobatics and underscores the Indian Air Force’s continued emphasis on outreach, professional excellence, and indigenous capability.
