Flying Accidents in the IAF

Flying Accidents in the IAF

The recent accident on 24th April 2012 of a Mirage – 2000 at Gwalior sent shock waves. And every one is asking a question why so many accidents in the IAF?

Summarized reasons :-

Alpha :- Boeing study of world wide accidents of 30 yrs revealed higher accident rate (as compared to US & Europe) in Latin America, South Africa & South Asia.

Reasons for South Asia – Primarily attitudinal deficiencies.
(i) Chalta Hai “ pyrk gS ” attitude.
(ii) Tendency not to point out faults / deficiencies of colleagues.

Bravo:- HAL
Most of our accidents have been on those aircraft which are built by HAL under license, or serviced or supported by HAL.
Mig 21’s, 23, 27,
Jaguars
HPT – 32, Cheeta & Chetek Heptrs

HAL could not rectify deficiencies of HPT 32. IAF was forced to withdraw the aircraft from service. It is most disappointing and astonishing that HAL has not been able to produce a trust worthy basic trainer. Since HAL has failed to produce a trust worthy basic trainer IAF has opted for PILATUS aircraft.

In Mig 21 series of aircraft HAL was found wanting on even technical practices.

Other reasons:-

Charlie :- CRM – Crew Resource Management
Wherever more than one crew member is part of the crew, lack of coordination and correct cockpit procedure may result in an accident.

Delta :- TCG – Trans Cockpit Gradient

Whenever two members of the crew have large differences in seniority/experience/same may result in an accident. As the communication gets truncated or restricted from Junior to Senior. (If junior is in command).

Echo: - ORM – Operational Risk Management

Defines various parameters for a successful mission accomplishment. If applied correctly would give the operational Go Ahead/No Go.

Foxtrot :- Lack for Preflight Briefings
Various facets of procedures and emergencies should be deliberated and discussed.

Golf: - Simulator Training & Refresher Training - All modern aircraft like Mirage– 2000 and Su-30MK-I have advanced flight simulators. Pre flight simulator trainings should be prescribed and followed meticulously (like for break in flying/different seniority levels)