PAF presents stunning air show to mark Independence Day

ISLAMABAD, Aug 14 (APP): Various ceremonies were arranged to mark the
70th Independence Day of Pakistan across the country with traditional fervor, but the icing on the cake was a breathtaking air show by Pakistan Air Force (PAF).
The largest air show in the history of Pakistan was held at Islamabad
and Karachi at different intervals. The first air show was held at Fatima Jinnah Park, Islamabad. President of Islamic Republic of Pakistan Mamnoon Hussain was the chief guest on the occasion, said a statement issued here by media department of PAF.
Defence Minister Khurram Dastagir and Air Chief Marshal, Sohail Aman,
Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force also witnessed the magnificent event. Ambassadors of friendly countries, former Air Chiefs and high-ranking civil and military officers were also present on the occassion.
PAF’s fighter and training aircraft including Mirage, SAAB-2000, and
Augusta-139 from PAF; while, MI-17 and PUMA helicopters from Army Aviation participated in the show. Besides PAF aircraft, world renowned aerobatic teams from brotherly countries Turkey and Saudi Arabia also performed in the mega event.
The huge crowd gathered in the lush green F-9 Park was ecstatic to see
“Solo Turk” flying overhead in a thundering sound. The stunning maneuvers of this world famous aerobatics team of Turkish Air Force left the spectators spell bound. The next event was a spectacular aerobatics display of “Saudi Hawks”, 07 ship formation aerobatics team of Royal Saudi Air Force. The blue skies of Islamabad were filled with colours as this acclaimed aerobatic team displayed eye-catching drills. The spectators thoroughly enjoyed the breathtaking maneuvers of these aircraft and showed appreciation by clapping and chanting slogans.
After the thrilling performance of Saudi Hawks, the indigenously-built
JF-17 Thunder aircraft entered the arena. The spectators cheered with joy to see the spectacular maneuvers of the aircraft, rightfully called the pride of the nation. Moments after the departure of the roaring JF-17 Thunder, Augusta helicopters appeared on the horizon for solo aerobatics display. The show was rounded off with the Tri-Services free fall display in which the commandos from the Special Services Wings jumped from a C-130 aircraft flying at the height of 10,000 feet and safely landed at the designated places.
Another air show was held at Sea View Karachi in which Chief Minister
Sindh Murad Ali Shah was the chief guest. F-16, P-3C Orion, Z-9, Alouette-III and Sea King helicopters presented the fly past at the venue. Afterwards JF-17 Thunder and PAF aerobatics team Sherdil presented a mesmerizing aerial display.