Taking off from Bien Hoa Airbase in neighboring Dong Nai Province, the Mi-8 and Mi-17 helicopters flew in a 3-4-3 formation and soared toward the southern metropolis, with their engines roaring across the sky.

The first view from the air was the meandering Dong Nai River and the historic Hoa An Bridge—once a key point in the revolutionary forces’ advance to liberate Saigon, the former name of Ho Chi Minh City, in 1975.

From the helicopters, the landscape transformed into a captivating tapestry of forests, lakes, and urban areas.

Flying at a moderate altitude allowed for clear glimpses of the life unfolding below.

As the aircraft neared downtown Ho Chi Minh City, iconic skyscrapers like Landmark 81 and Bitexco Financial Tower came into view, along with familiar structures like the Saigon and Binh Loi Bridges.

The helicopters trailed the red national and Party flags over Reunification Palace, evoking pride among spectators below.

Crowds gathered at Bach Dang Wharf and along the Saigon River section in downtown Ho Chi Minh City, waving flags and cheering as the helicopters passed overhead.

Under clear skies and bright sunlight, the flags fluttered vividly, creating a striking visual against the blue backdrop.

The flyover continued with roaring Su-30MK2 fighter jets and Yak-130 light combat aircraft, drawing enthusiastic applause.

Residents flocked to riverbanks and open spaces to capture photos and admire the jets' precise maneuvers.

The aerial rehearsal is part of a series of events leading up to the national-level parade scheduled to begin at 6:30 am on April 30, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the liberation of southern Vietnam and Reunification Day.

The grand event will feature military and police units, with full coordination between the Ministry of National Defense, Ministry of Public Security, and Ho Chi Minh City authorities.

Below are some highlights of the April 22 aerial rehearsal: