The Kempegowda International Airport of Bengaluru (KIA) will implement temporary airspace closures between February 5 and 14 as part of the much awaited Aero India 2025.
Bengaluru will be hosting the premium event, the city which first saw powered flight in the country in February 1911, marking a truly glorious chapter in India’s aviation history. The region thereafter become India’s aviation hub, eventually ushering in key institutions such as Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the Training Command of the Indian Air Force.
At this years grand Aero show the spotlight will be on the US Air Force, which is expected to send two F-16 and two F-35 fighter jets to India for the event. However, unlike the previous edition in 2023, these jets will be part of the static display and not participate in the aerial demonstrations at Yelahanka Air Force Station.
Russia is also set to make a strong impression at Aero India 2025, with its Su-57 fifth-generation fighter making its flying debut at the event. The Su-57’s participation in the air display is expected to be a key highlight, especially as India continues to evaluate fighter jet procurements for the coming years.
Beyond defence manufacturing, the event will highlight India’s investment in indigenous research and development. From unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to advanced radar systems and missile technology, Aero India 2025 will showcase the country’s growing expertise in critical defence technologies.
India’s push to expand its presence in the global defence market will also be on display, with an emphasis on exporting homegrown products like the Tejas fighter jet and advanced helicopters.
Delegations from countries such as the US, France, Israel, Russia and several European nations will attend Aero India 2025, underscoring the event’s significance as a hub for global defence collaboration.
Airspace Closures and Flight Disruptions
The airspace restrictions will apply at various times during the event for safety reasons during aerial displays at Air Force Station at Yelahanka.
The timings for airspace closures are:
5, 6, and 8 February, 9:00 AM–12:00 PM; 3:00 PM–4:30 PM
7 and 9 February, 9:00 AM–11:00 AM
7 February (additional): 3:00 PM–4:30 PM
10 February, 9:00 AM–11:30 AM; 2:30 PM–3:30 PM
11 and 12 February, 12:00 PM–2:30 PM
13 and 14 February, 9:30 AM–12:00 PM; 2:30 PM–5:00 PM.
With the anticipated disruption of flight operations at this time, passengers planning to travel during this period are advised to make arrangements in advance to avoid inconveniences.
A Brief Halt on Meat Shops Close to Yelahanka
In furtherance of even greater air safety, BBMP has put a temporary ban on meat, chicken, and fish stalls and non-vegetarian hotels/restaurants within a 13-kilometer radius of Yelahanka Air Force Station.
This is said to try to reduce the number of kites and other scavenger birds that pose risks to the aircraft when the air show happens. This is expected to cut down the chances for bird strikes.
On Residents and Travellers
Such a ban will see flights experiencing delays and cancellations throughout the period. Travelers are, therefore, urged to stay informed about the taking off and landing of their flights through their airlines.
The businesses and residents may also be harmed by the closure of the meat stalls and restrict their earnings and supply for some time. But whatever the case may be, all of these are for the sake of air safety during Aero India 2025.
Despite the inconveniences caused, Aero India 2025 is an event not to be missed by aviation and defense buffs, as some of the premier fighter jets will be in action in the Bengaluru skies looking to dazzle the avid onlookers.
