New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF)
lost 40 aircraft in different accidents in which 45 people
were killed in the last 3 years, the Rajya Sabha was informed
on Wednesday.
"During the last three years (February 1, 2008 to
February 17, 2011), 16 pilots, 24 service personnel and five
civilians have died in 40 air crashes reported in Indian Air
Force (IAF) in the last three years," Defence Minister A K
Antony said while replying to a written question.
The Defence Minister said every accident was
thoroughly investigated by a Court of Inquiry (CoI) to
ascertain the cause of the accident and remedial measures are
taken accordingly to check their recurrence.
"IAF has taken various measures relating to
strengthening the aviation safety organisation, streamlining
of accident reporting procedure to identify vulnerable areas
and institute remedial measures to reduce aircraft accidents,"
he added.
On the collision of the Navy`s frigate INS Vindhyagiri
off Mumbai harbour, he said "a Board of Inquiry has been
ordered by the Indian Navy. The reason for the collision and
details of damage sustained and losses suffered will be
established on completion of the Board of Inquiry", Antony
said.
On the recent crash involving an Indian army
helicopter near Nasik on February 2, the Defence Minister
said "the loss to private property and to the government will
be ascertained in the CoI."
PTI
