Fire near Aero India 2019 venue, over 100 cars gutted

India's premier aero show has had a disastrous ending with a parking lot fire that gutted over a hundred cars after the dry grass went ablaze, backed by strong winds at the Yelahanka air base.

There have been no reports of injuries but the fire engulfed the parking lot on a public day when thousands of visitors had come to the show. The Aero India show had a tragic start as well when two Surya Kiran jets crashes during inaugural practice, resulting in the death of one pilot.

Saturday's fire was brought under control by the fire department but not before more than a 100 vehicles parked near the Gate 5 (public entry) were destroyed. As thick smoke engulfed the area, all flying was called off. There was initial panic at the show with fears that an air accident had taken place.


Officials said that heavy winds resulted in the blaze spreading quickly and that the reason behind the fire is being probed.

The fire took place within the air force base that is secured by the air force as well as the Central industrial security force. Visitors have to go through at least two layers of security before entering the display area.