Chennai is all set to host a grand Indian Air Force (IAF) air show on October 6 at Marina Beach. This exciting event, being held to celebrate the 92nd anniversary of the IAF, promises a breathtaking display of aerobatic skills and synchronized flying.
Aerial Displays to Look Forward To
This year’s air show will feature 72 aircraft, including Rafale, Sukhoi-30, MIGs, Jaguars, and the indigenous HAL Tejas. Attendees will also witness stunning performances by the IAF's aerobatic teams, Surya Kiran and Sarang. The event marks the first time an IAF air show is being held in South India.
High Attendance and Security Arrangements
An estimated 1.5 million spectators are expected to attend the show. To ensure smooth functioning, around 6,500 police officers and 1,500 Home Guards will be deployed across the city. Aircraft will take off from bases located in Tambaram, Thanjavur, Sulur, and Bengaluru, converging over East Coast Road before reaching Marina Beach for the main display. The entire event will be coordinated by the Air Traffic Controller at Chennai Airport.
Increased Security Measures for Chennai IAF Air Show: Beach Secured, Dignitaries and Visitors Welcomed
Ahead of the highly anticipated Indian Air Force (IAF) air show at Marina Beach in Chennai, a section of the beach opposite Vivekananda House has been secured to ensure the safety of attendees and smooth functioning of the event. Air traffic control units are being set up, and a 500-meter stretch has been barricaded with armed defense personnel stationed to maintain strict security. The area from Napier Bridge to Srinivasapuram will be divided into segments, with over 1,000 dignitaries expected to attend the show in a sterile zone designated for their exclusive use.
Sanitation and Visitor Amenities
The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) is playing an active role in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene at the event. Their mandate includes ensuring clean and well-maintained toilet facilities for visitors, clearing the beach of stalls, and overseeing the mass cleaning efforts. Over 230 toilet seats are already available along the beach, and an additional 60 mobile toilets will be installed by October 4.
To further facilitate the event, a 200-meter stretch on either side of the wooden ramp has been cleared of vendors and stalls. The GCC has also relocated 300 shops within a 500-meter radius to create a more spacious and comfortable environment for attendees.
With these measures in place, Chennai is preparing for a smooth and enjoyable air show experience for both dignitaries and the public.
Traffic and Safety Instructions
To accommodate the large crowd and maintain order, Chennai police have issued traffic diversions for October 6. Kamarajar Salai will only allow vehicles with passes between Gandhi Statue and the War Memorial, while other motorists are advised to take Wallajah Salai for better access. Commercial vehicles will be restricted in key areas such as Kamarajar Salai, Anna Salai, and Santhome High Road from 7 AM to 4 PM. Attendees are urged to avoid bringing food items due to bird strike concerns.
More than 3,000 police officers will be deployed across key points to maintain order. Public entry to the event will likely be from Napier Bridge and Nochi Kuppam, according to police officials. A comprehensive parking plan is being devised by the traffic police to accommodate the large number of attendees. In addition to traffic and crowd management, local hotels and lodges will also undergo security checks to ensure the safety of dignitaries and visitors.
arking and other logistical details have been shared through the Chennai Traffic Police’s social media channels.
IAF Airshow 2024: Chennai Traffic Police Issues Advisory for October 6 Aerial Display