A “flying jumbo“ in royal regalia

The flying jumbo in royal regalia used to enthrall spectators
gathered at Rajpath in New Delhi

But this caparisoned jumbo was no ordinary pachyderm. It was a small helicopter, modified to resemble a “dancing elephant“ and flew over the Rajpath during the Republic Day parade.

Needless to say , its performance was the pièce de résistance of the fly past showcased by the Indian Air Force on Republic Day . Manoeuvering of the copter was no mean feat. It not only required extensive practice and high skill on part of the pilot but also a high level of technical expertise as external 'attachments' were fitted to the flying machine and any laxity meant disaster.

Isn't this wonderful? What imagination and skill this took. I wish I could see these jumbos in action but it happened 40 years ago. Read the whole story at Times of India.