IAF short of 363 pilots

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is short of of 363 pilots, a shortage that has lingered on for some time owing to lack of basic trainers. In 2008 when I had interviewed the then IAF chief Air Chief Marshal Fali Homi Major, he quoted a figure of 400 for the shortage of aviators in the force.

As on January 1, 2012, the actual strength of pilots is 3420 against the sanctioned strength of 3783.

The constant delays in the procurement of the Basic Trainers will make it difficult for the force to cover up the shortfall.

Here is the reply given by Defence Minister AK Antony in reply to a question in the Parliament-

Following the accidents of Mirage 2000 aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) on 24.2.2012 and 5.3.2012, all routine training flying on the Mirage 2000 fleet has been temporarily stopped as a precautionary measure. Based on the results of the initial investigations of the accidents, certain checks have been instituted by the IAF. Commencement of flying of the Mirage 2000 fleet is being undertaken in stages post completion of checks.

Mirage lined up in Istres during exercise Garuda 

During the last two years (2010-11 and 2011-12) and current financial year 2012-13 (upto 19.4.2012), two Mirage 2000 aircrafts have crashed. Technical Defect was the cause of both accidents.

There was no loss of life in the accidents. Monetary loss to the Government is in terms of value of the two crashed aircrafts and compensation for loss of civil property.

Every IAF aircraft accident is thoroughly investigated by a Court of Inquiry to ascertain the cause of accident and remedial measures are taken accordingly to check their recurrence in future.

Upgradation of aircraft fleet, including Mirage 2000 aircrafts, is reviewed from time to time keeping in view several factors including the operational requirements of the Indian Air Force. This is a continuous process.

IAF has simulators for Kiran Mkl/IA, Hawk Mk-32, An-32 and Dornier aircraft which are being used as trainer aircraft. All these simulators are serviceable and the training syllabus includes flying training on these simulators. Further, simulators are being procured along with new induction of aircraft like the Basic Trainer Aircraft and Intermediate Jet Trainer aircraft.

As on 1st January, 2012, the actual strength of pilots is 3420 against the sanctioned strength of 3783.