IAF Lauds Pilot Who Dropped Fuel Tanks After Bird Hits Aircraft

IAF Jaguar used for representation.

(Photo: ANI)

It was narrow escape for an Indian Air Force Jaguar pilot on Thursday, 28 June, when his aircraft suffered a bird hit, soon after taking off from Ambala airbase for a training session.

One of the engines of the aircraft failed after being hit by the bird, however, the pilot managed to land safely.

In a statement on 29 June, the IAF praised the polite for his “professionalism and quick thinking”, lauding him for saving the lives of several civilians who lived in the area.

“His actions bear testimony to highest professional standards of IAF resulting from extensive operational training. The professionalism & quick thinking by the pilot not only saved a war waging asset but also lives of many civilians in the area adjoining the airfield.”

IAF Statement

The IAF Jaguar was loaded with two additional fuel drop tanks and Carrier Bomb Light Stores (CBLS). When the pilot detected engine failure, he dropped them off the plane towards dry bushes near the runway, which triggered an explosion.

“The pilot jettisoned his fuel tanks and external stores, including some 10 kg practice bombs, to gain height and managed to land back safely," Air Force officials told ANI.

There were no reports of casualties.

(With inputs from ANI)