Sqn Ldr Surya Bir Singh is on the posted strength of Basic Flying Training School since 20 Jun 91, as a Flying Instructor.

On 20 Feb 92, Sqn Ldr SB Singh was detailed for an instructional general handl ing sortie on Deepak aircraft No. x 2550. During the process of demonstrating a loop to the trainee, severe engine vibrations were experienced, while the aircraft was travel ing vertically with air-speed rapidly reducing. Sqn Ldr SB Singh calmly reduced throttle and recovered the aircraft from the adverse attitude, inspite of being hampered by the severely vibrating instrument panel. Attempt of reducing the engine vibrations by adjusting mixture, resulted in engine switch off, vibrations and propeller coming to dead stop, instead of wind milling.

Sqn Ldr SB Singh kept the engine shut at great personal risk and decided to carry out a dead stick landing. The situation in terms of height and distance to runway at that moment was critical.

As a consequence of an excellent and precise judgment, expert and deft handling of the aircraft, Sqn Ldr SB Singh executed a copy book dead stick landing. During the entire emergency, he kept the inexperienced flight cadet engrossed by calling out the actions in the cockpit. Sqn Ldr SB Singh displayed exceptional qualities of airmanship and professionalism in handling the emergency by safely force landing the aircraft without any damage or injury to its occupants.

For his acts of courage and exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr SB Singh.