Wing walking, pyrotechnics in Scandinavian Airshow

The Scandinavian Airshow could sound deceptively simple. But the aerobatic team behind it is all set to dazzle at Aero India 2015 with their wingwalking, a stunt that should take everyone’s breath away! Get set to watch them dance and perform atop the wings, in sync with the music.

Also on their agenda is a pyrotechnic show performed by two pilots and three wing walkers. The feat will involve laser lights and pyrotechnics, all when the aircraft are on flying mode! Helping them do the stunts will be two Grumman 164 AG-CAT aircraft that are modified to suit the requirements of their aerobatics.

Here’s what the team’s air show pilot and managing director, Jacob Hollander has to say: “My aim is to always improve my own and my team’s air show displays in a safe way. Participating at air shows worldwide and meeting new cultures and friends is something I really live for.”

For the record, Jacob is the second generation in the family on the air show arena. His father Pierre Holländer had founded the company in 1977. By the time he was six, Jacob had already started following his father to air shows, discovering the world of aerobatics. Besides managing Scandinavian Airshow, Jacob also multi-tasks as an airline commander and instructor for a major Scandinavian Airline.

Jacob’s main discplay aircraft is the Viking, and there is good reason to do so. He explains, “Viking is an amazing 3D aircraft with an incredible performance. It is an aircraft which you can develop in for many years ahead.”

The team also has Sus Jan Heden as a Catwalk display pilot. He works as chief of operation, ATC Sus, contributing with his great aviation skills. Bengt Andersson is another display pilot attached to the team, flying the Wasp. His flying skills were fine-tuned by this vast experience in the Swedish Air Force.

Arriving early for rehearsals at the Yelahanka Air Force Station, the airshow venue, the team has test flown all the three aircraft without remark. Here’s how the team describes each of the aircraft: “Catwalk is like a tractor and used to operate in Louisiana in high temperature. Viking is pretty similar, although a bit sloppy in the snaps.”