HDK requests Defense Ministry to organise  Aero India 2021 in Bengaluru

Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy at a review meeting of the air show that concluded appealed to Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to organise the biennial premier aerospace event Aero India only in Bengaluru, an official statement said.

It is gathered that Kumaraswamy has requested Sitharaman to hold the Aero India 2021 air show in Bengaluru only just like the previous 11 editions organised over the last 22 years. Kumaraswamy made a personal request about the venue since the Defence Minister did not announce dates for the 2021 show at the inaugural event on Wednesday, informed sources.

The massive fire in the air base parking lot on Saturday, February 24 that gutted about 300 cars and the death of a IAF pilot after two Surya Kiran jets collided in the air and crashed on Tuesday while rehearsing for the flying display were also discussed at the meeting, where IAF and defence ministry officials, state officials and city police were present.

Thanking Sitharaman for holding the 12th edition of the 5-day international expo in Bengaluru, the Chief Minister said the visitors had been delighted to witness a spectacular display of over 50 aircraft, including fighters at the Air Force’s Yelahanka base

It may be recalled that speculation was rife last year that the prestigious event might be shifted to Uttar Pradesh.