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In the festive atmosphere celebrating National Day on September 2nd, Hanoi will become the focal point of many solemn and spectacular commemorative activities. Besides the military parade and procession, the performance by 30 aircraft of the Air Defense - Air Force Command is one of the most anticipated experiences.
This "aerial display" not only showcases the power of the armed forces but also brings moments of pride and emotion to the people. To fully appreciate this majestic beauty, choosing the ideal viewing location is extremely important.
The performance by 30 aircraft of the Air Defense and Air Force Command was one of the highlights of the parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of National Day.
This year's National Day air show is meticulously planned, involving 9 flight formations and 30 aircraft of various types, including helicopters, CASA transport planes, and powerful Su-30 fighter jets. The squadrons will take off from Hoa Lac, Gia Lam (Hanoi), and Kep (Bac Ninh) airfields, then form a flight and fly over iconic landmarks of the capital such as Nhat Tan Bridge, the Red River, West Lake, and Hoan Kiem Lake, before heading towards Ba Dinh Square.
Participating forces: 9 flight formations with 30 aircraft of various types (helicopters, CASA, Su-30, etc.)
The timing of the aerial display is also crucial. According to the official schedule, the performance will take place on the morning of September 2nd, starting at 6:30 AM. Based on previous test flights and rehearsals (on August 27th and 30th), the squadrons usually take off around 6:00 - 6:30 AM. The entire performance only lasts about 15 minutes, so timing yourself correctly and choosing the right position is essential to avoid missing any moment. This performance will take place immediately after the ground parade concludes, so spectators need to be prepared.
The squadron will take off from Hoa Lac, Gia Lam (Hanoi), and Kep (Bac Ninh) airports, then fly over iconic landmarks of the capital such as Nhat Tan Bridge and the Red River...
The choice of viewing location depends on your preferences and purpose. Each perspective will offer a different experience.
If you want to admire the entire flight formation, especially the high-flying and fast-flying Su-30 fighter jets, a high vantage point is the best option. High-rise buildings of 30 stories or more in the following wards: Phu Thuong, Tay Ho, Ba Dinh, Ngoc Ha, Giang Vo, Hoan Kiem, Cua Nam, and Van Mieu - Quoc Tu Giam are considered "prime locations".
Arrive at the viewing site early so you don't miss the most spectacular moments of the aircraft display at the A80 parade.
From here, you can clearly see the seamless and precise coordination of the squadrons, creating a perfect picture in the sky. These areas are located on the main flight axis, ensuring an unobstructed view and a comprehensive view of the entire formation. You should avoid areas like My Dinh or Long Bien, because although you can still see the planes, these are takeoff and landing zones, not the best vantage points to admire the flight formation.
Depending on your circumstances and preferences, you can choose a beautiful spot high up to enjoy the panoramic view or a lower vantage point to appreciate the grandeur up close.
Even if you can't get high enough, you can still enjoy the aerial display from spacious, open areas. The ideal locations are along the flight path towards Ba Dinh Square, especially around Hoan Kiem Lake. The majestic sight of the planes flying over the Turtle Tower and The Huc Bridge will provide a truly special experience.
Areas like My Dinh or Long Bien offer views of the planes, but these aren't the best vantage points because they are takeoff and landing zones.
However, it's important to note that the Ba Dinh Square area will have restricted access on September 2nd. You should choose nearby locations with good views, such as the intersection of Nguyen Thai Hoc, Hung Vuong, and Hang Chao streets; or wide streets like Dien Bien Phu and Le Hong Phong. These locations not only allow you to appreciate the majestic presence of the aircraft up close but can also be combined with watching the ground parade.
For photography enthusiasts, the air show is a fantastic opportunity to capture historical images. For close-up shots, the area near Ba Dinh Square or Hoan Kiem Lake is ideal for capturing moments of Mi helicopters and CASA transport planes flying at close range. If you want a beautiful backdrop, streets like Tran Phu, Le Hong Phong, and Nguyen Tri Phuong with their green trees and ancient architecture will create impressive scenes, truly embodying the essence of Hanoi.
The wide, less obstructed areas are located along the flight path towards Ba Dinh Square, typically the area around Hoan Kiem Lake.
To capture the moment a plane flies by, you should prioritize using a phone or camera with good zoom capabilities. A key tip is to use burst mode or video recording to ensure you don't miss a single moment. Mirrorless or DSLR cameras with telephoto lenses are perfect choices, allowing you to focus accurately and produce sharp images.
With these tips, hopefully you will secure an ideal spot and have a memorable experience watching the impressive air show, an unmissable highlight of the 80th National Day celebrations.
