“It is at times difficult to explain that the accident occurred not ‘because of’ but ‘in spite of’ all the worthy effort put in by the aviators.”
The Indian Air Force recently lost a fighter aircraft in a tragic accident. The cause of the mishap is yet to be confirmatively established by a Court of Inquiry. Even more heartbreaking was the untimely loss of a young fighter pilot—an irreplaceable life lost at the peak of youth and service.
While the nation mourns the loss, there has been growing commentary on social media questioning the IAF's track record of aircraft accidents. These critics often point to the high number of aircraft crashes and the cost implications—modern fighters costing upwards of ₹500 crore—not to mention the priceless lives at stake.
This piece offers a rare and sincere glimpse into the high-stakes world of fighter aviation. It seeks to dispel the myth that the Air Force compels its pilots to fly outdated aircraft, and instead shows the intensity, discipline, and complexity that surrounds every single combat mission.
Fighter-flying is inherently risky—among the riskiest professions globally. With a 40,000 kg machine powered by 25,000 kgf thrust, everything must work in perfect unison: machine, man, and mission. In air combat, margins for error are razor-thin.
The selection process for fighter pilots is rigorous, based on flying skill, quick decision-making, mental resilience, and a perfect mix of discipline and controlled aggression. Years of extensive training follow before they are deemed combat-ready.
Air combat is rarely a solo act. Pilots maneuver in synchrony with formation members, driven by camaraderie and the desire not to be the weakest link. Pride, ego, and a will to excel push them to the very limits of aircraft performance.
There are no consolation points in aerial battle. It is binary—either you win or you lose. Realism in training is emphasized: high-G turns, radar targeting, rapid threat identification—all mimicked without live ammunition. Each flight demands peak physical and mental readiness.
Even a minor cold can affect cognitive function, so health regulations are strict. Alcohol restrictions (“12 hours between bottle and throttle”) and sleep discipline are non-negotiable. Physical training enhances G-tolerance, essential during combat turns pulling up to 8-9 Gs, or eight to nine times one’s own body weight.
Blackouts due to G-forces are real, but pilots are expected to function, decide, and act under such extreme conditions. Every sortie is followed by a detailed debrief—sometimes lasting hours—to learn and prepare for the ultimate test: real combat.
One of the biggest nightmares for any combat pilot is a ‘blue-on-blue’ incident—accidentally targeting one’s own aircraft. Beyond Visual Range (BVR) combat requires impeccable situational awareness to avoid such tragedies, all while dealing with unpredictable variables like weather.
Most modern air forces rely on Operational Risk Management (ORM) systems that assess safety before launch—weather, pilot condition, aircraft readiness, and mission type.
Once airborne, the pilot must manage flight, radar, weapons, navigation, and monitor fellow formation members—all while flying at low altitudes (200–300 ft) at nearly 900 kmph. There’s zero margin for delay—every second counts.
Aircraft systems must function flawlessly. A vast support team ensures aircraft readiness: engineers, logisticians, ATC, ground radar teams, fighter controllers, runway staff, and fire & safety crews. Claims about “poor spares” are unfounded; all aircraft—even older ones—are rigorously maintained to the highest standards.
Even so, in-flight emergencies occur. Pilots train relentlessly for such scenarios using simulators. Sometimes, despite all efforts, pilots must eject. Though aircraft are expensive, pilots are irreplaceable—taking 6-7 years to become fully operational.
Accidents still happen—sometimes due to latent design flaws, maintenance issues, or simple bad luck. When all layers of defense fail, the result can be catastrophic. That’s why safety training is omnipresent, on ground and in air.
Each incident undergoes detailed investigation. Lessons become SOPs—sometimes “written in blood.” These SOPs are tested, refined, and implemented across squadrons. Fleet phase-out is a deliberate, multi-factor decision—not a knee-jerk response.
Over time, air forces reduce accident rates by learning continuously and refining procedures. Risk management is a never-ending cycle.
Beyond-the-Ray-Bans lies a world of relentless commitment, danger, and silent sacrifices. It’s difficult to explain to the public that accidents often happen in spite of all precautions, not because of negligence.
“The safest place for a ship is in the harbour. But that’s not where a ship is meant to be.”
The same holds true for our fighter aircraft—and the valiant pilots who fly them.
Postscript: While this article highlights fighter-flying, similar risks and challenges are faced in helicopter and transport flying. With women now stepping into combat roles, the use of the masculine gender throughout this piece may not be entirely appropriate.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author. Sudarshan News has published this piece in the spirit of information and awareness and does not claim ownership of the opinions presented.