MIG-21s are not erratic in function, says Govt

New Delhi, Mar 1: The Government today (Mar 1, 2006) denied reports that MIG-21s have been found erratic in their function and said that it is a stable aircraft with over 10,000 hours of safe flying since its induction into service in 2002.

In a written reply to the Rajya Sabha, Defence Minister Pranab Mukherjee said a continuous and mutli-faceted effort is always underway in the Indian Air Force to enhance and upgrade flight safety.

He said measures to enhance the quality of training to improve the skill levels, ability to exercise sound judgement and situational awareness of pilots are being pursued.

Constant interaction with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) of countries concerned are also maintained to overcome the technical defects of aircraft.

On January 17th, 2006 a MIG-21 had crashed in Jamnagar, Gujarat.

A total number of 14 HPT-32 Trainee aircraft have crashed since 1989.

UNI