Bengaluru’s Destiny with Air show dates back to 1911

By R Anil Kumar

Bengaluru, February 4. As Bengaluru gears up for yet another Spectacular Air Show, the 15^th Edition of Aero India, to be held from 10-14 February, where thousands are expected to witness the spectacle at the Yelahanka Air Force Station, one needs to know that, Bengaluru, India’s aviation capital, had its first date with an air show 106 years ago. February 3, 1911.

Bengaluru’s Aviation Journey took flight in February 1911, as Belgian Aviators Baron Pierre De and Jules Wyck soared over the Parade Ground, mesmerizing 25 thousand spectators witnessing powered flight for the first time ever in the city, which is now hosting the 15^th Edition of the Biennial Aero Show, Aero India-2025, being organised by the Ministry of Defence, since 1996.

While people from districts neighbouring Bengaluru had made their way then to catch what the organizers had called a “miracle in the skies,” Bengaluru’s quest for the flying machines has remained intact in 2025.

In 1911, Jules Wyck and Belgian adventurer Baron Pierre De Caters were the two pilots who brought their aircraft to Bengaluru, for a show that garnered a huge response.

Organizers in 1911 had figured out a plan for free viewers. The organizers, who had learnt that people would not buy tickets as they thought planes could be spotted even otherwise, had organized the show in such a way that only those with tickets (worth 25 paise each) had a one-hour exclusive.

“Between 3.30 pm and 4.30 pm the planes would fly at a height of just 30 metre which only the ticket holders Could see. For a few minutes after 4.30 pm, the planes would fly a little higher,” making the display visible for the enthusiastic onlookers from outside.

Police had been ordered to patrol major roads leading to the venue such as South Parade Road (now MG Road), Brigade Road and Church Street and even in Cubbon Park.

The event organised by the British Army signalled a long aviation legacy for Bengaluru, a city that now has become an epicentre for India’s Aerospace Industry. The City then on, is synonymous to excellence in aviation sector, housing key defence institutions like the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Bharat Electronics, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), among other major defence establishments.