Thousands Celebrate National Air Force 71th Anniversary

Jakarta, (Antara) - Thousands of people gathered at the Halim Perdanakusumah Airport to celebrate the National Air Force's 71th anniversary marked by an aerobatic display and war simulation here on Sunday.

Around 132 various aircraft, including UAV, T-41 Cessna, CN-295/235/235 MPA, F-16, T-50i, Hawk 109/209, Sukhoi 27/30, EMB-314, Grob G-120 TP, and KT-1 Woong Bee, as well as 4,500 soldiers had participated in the anniversary's exhibition, Air Force Chief of Staff Marshal Hadi Tjahjanto stated.

"Our troops have intended to show the best performance for this year's commemoration," Tjahjanto noted while adding that several people had been awaiting to watch the troops' aerobatic display and maneuvers of the aircraft.

Spokesman Jemi Trisonjaya added that the event kicked off with an official ceremony that was later followed by a simulation of releasing hostages as well as an aerobatic show performed by trainer aircraft, helicopters, and passenger aircraft.

"Our special Jupiter Aerobatic Team (JAT) will fly the KT-1 Woong Bee aircraft to perform around 12 maneuvers in the sky," Trisonjaya noted.

Following the display by the force's prominent aerobatic team, other pilots also showcased the "box-formation" and "double-box formation" maneuvers at a height of one thousand to 1,100 feet.

Another performance showcased was the "dog fight," or combat simulation, between two aircraft, including F-16 A/B and Sukhoi Su-27/30.

After the show, the two aircraft displayed a "bomb burst" simulation in an "Arrow Head" formation at a height of one thousand feet.

The event that attracted thousands of people caused heavy traffic congestion at the airport and in the nearby areas.

The congestion occurred as several visitors used their personal vehicles to reach the airport.

However, 39-year-old Fauzi, one of the visitors, said the aerobatic show was exceptional; hence he took his two children to watch the performance.(*)