Bengaluru/Patna: Rajiv Pratap Rudy, BJP MP from Saran, took to the skies in a Sukhoi-30 MKI fighter jet on Wednesday during Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru. The experienced pilot flew the aircraft for 52 minutes at an altitude of 22,000 feet, performing a series of aerial stunts, including tumbles, loops, and barrel rolls.
Accompanied by Wing Commander Parminder Chahal, Rudy demonstrated his aviation expertise in a high-intensity manoeuvre session. A video of the flight has surfaced, capturing the moment he navigated the supersonic jet through the skies.
Before takeoff, Rudy underwent and passed all necessary fitness tests, donning a G-suit for the high-gravity conditions. As a trained commercial pilot, he became the first Indian MP to fly such an advanced fighter aircraft, adding to his previous experience of piloting the Rafale jet.
‘A Test of Strength, Speed and Endurance’
Reflecting on the experience, Rudy described it as both exhilarating and demanding. “I am used to flying as a commercial pilot, but handling a powerful fighter jet like the Sukhoi-30 MKI was a complete test of strength, speed, and endurance,” he said.
He also commended the Indian Air Force pilots, saying, “Because of them, our country is in safe hands.”
Bringing the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team to Bihar
During the event, Rudy observed aerial displays of cutting-edge fighter jets, including the Sukhoi-57 and SU-35. He was also impressed by the stunts performed by the Indian Air Force’s elite aerobatic team, Surya Kiran.
“There are plans to invite the Surya Kiran team to Bihar. This will give the youth of the state an opportunity to witness the strength and skill of the Air Force up close,” he said.
A Leader in the Skies
Rudy is no stranger to high-performance aircraft. He has previously flown the Rafale, India’s most advanced new-generation fighter jet, in Bengaluru. He also piloted the inaugural flight when Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Deoghar airport.
Beyond his political career, Rudy has actively used his aviation skills during emergencies, offering assistance from his parliamentary constituency to other parts of the country.
