Details : | Squadron Leader Amit Sharma (26545) Flying (Pilot)is on the posted strength of a Su-30 MKI Squadron since 07 Apr 08. On 07 Oct 09, he was detailed to fly as Number 3 for a practice Air Force Day flypast over Hindan Airfield. Shortly after take off, the air crew got a warning of 'Fly by Wire' failure, with the controls becoming sluggish and the aircraft pitching up. He along with his co-pilot quickly assessed the situation and reacted very promptly to this very adverse flight condition, which had happened for the first time in the history of Su-30 MKI aircraft operations in the IAF. He brought the aircraft under manual control and returned to base for a priority landing. During recovery and the most critical part of the flight i.e., during the approach and landing, the aircraft encountered continuous longitudinal oscillations and was pitching up viciously, nearing a state of uncontrolled flight. At this stage Sqn Ldr Sharma with his exemplary flying skills, handled the aircraft in a most professional manner and executed a safe landing. Post flight inspection revealed multiple failures of the 'Fly by Wire' system with loss of almost all means of longitudinal control. An adverse flight condition like this cannot be simulated while training, and in case of loss of controls the flight manual recommends an ejection by the aircrew. Sqn Ldr Sharma displayed exceptional professional courage and recovered the crippled aircraft from a condition which was totally unprecedented and undocumented. With this gallant act, he not only saved a valuable aircraft but this act also helped in post flight analysis of the failure. The analysis would be of tremendous advantage to avoid reoccurrence of such a failure again. For his act of exceptional courage and high degree of professionalism, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry)' to Squadron Leader Amit Sharma. |