ON 21 Dec 09, Wg Cdr VM Reddy (20453-K) F(P), Wg Cdr S Srivatsan (23800-H) F(N),Sqn Ldr J Singh (24933-L) F(P), Sqn Ldr RS Rawat (26573-B) Adm (FC) and Flt LtV Maheshwari (28941-G) AE(L) were detailed for a Day/Night observation supportmission on a Searcher MK-II, UAV. During rejoin by night, at a distance of 20 km frombase and at a height of 8500 feet, the crew observed ‘Engine Cut’, and ‘Ignition-2 Fail’warnings along with associated RPM and fuel pressure indications on the warningpanel. ‘Dual Gene Fail’ and other electrical system related warnings also appearedsubsequently. The crew took immediate actions in a professional manner. The UAVwas flown towards base and landed safely. Post flight inspection revealed low batteryvoltage and damage to the coupling between the alternator and engine shaft as thecasuse of the abnormality.The crew displayed good CRM and professionalism during handling of multipleemergencies and averted an accident. |