The Indian Air Force (IAF) has grappled with a concerning trend of air accidents, totalling 534 incidents, resulting in the tragic loss of 152 Indian pilots in the last three decades, says a report. Over the past five years alone, 45 accidents claimed the lives of 42 pilots, shedding light on the persistent challenges faced by India’s aviation sector. Preliminary investigations point towards a combination of factors contributing to these incidents, with pilot negligence and concerns over the quality of machinery emerging as significant issues. Back in 2012, the then Indian defence minister informed parliament about the alarming situation, revealing that more than half of India's MiG-21 fleet had been lost to accidents. The gravity of the situation came to the forefront in December 2021, when an Indian helicopter crashed, resulting in killing of 13 military officers, including general Bipin Rawat.

The incident underscored the urgency for a thorough review of safety protocols and equipment maintenance within the defense forces. More recent incidents include the collision and destruction of US 300 and Mirage 2000 in Madhya Pradesh in January 2023. Additionally, on March 8, 2023, an Indian Navy helicopter met a tragic fate as it sank in the Arabian Sea, further emphasizing the need for comprehensive measures to enhance safety and prevent such calamities. As the Indian Air Force contends with its position at the forefront of air accidents, calls for heightened scrutiny, training reforms, and technological upgrades resonate within defense circles. The nation mourned the loss of skilled pilots and military personnel while urging authorities to address the root causes behind these distressing incidents.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)