JOIN USLasting impressions of last day, last show
The last day of Aero India 2017 was a carnival, both inside and outside the Yelahanka Air Force station. Those who had bought passes to the exhibition area saw the planes from up close and visited the various attractions around.
Even those without passes felt that they had got a good deal, viewing the aircraft displays from outside. Children and adults alike were sitting on the compound wall, on the roofs of cars and even standing on motorcycles to catch a glimpse of the fighter planes performing stunts.
G Natesh travelled all the way from Ramanagaram district and arrived at the air force station by noon. He couldn’t get a pass for the show, but that didn’t stop him from enjoying it, perched atop the compound wall. There were many like him who climbed on to anything which would give them a better view.
The staircase of an under-construction skywalk was a blessing for the air show enthusiasts. People quarreled for space and the steps higher up were in great demand.
“I have been here since 3 pm and haven’t moved an inch from my spot,” said 45-year-old Manjula T, who had a prized spot at the top.
People gathered in large numbers even at the nearby Hunasamaranahallikere lake since they could get a good view from there too.
Rajashekara M, a resident of Yelahanka, was keen on watching the flight displays, but he expected this year’s show to be a low-key affair. “I purchased a pass last year and it was very good. This time, from what I heard, I felt that buying a pass wasn’t worth it. But I was still curious, so I came to watch the last two hours,” he said. Visitors who had bought the cheaper tickets which allowed entry only to the air display viewing area were also happy with their experience. “I have been in Bengaluru for about eight years but I have never come for the air show. Now I wonder why I did not, because the show is brilliant.” said Anurag Kumar.