President Kalam makes history by flying in Sukhoi

Pune, June 8 (UNI) President A P J Kalam, at the age of 74 years, created history and fulfilled his childhood dream of going supersonic by flying in Indian Air Force's (IAF) advanced multi-role Sukhoi-30 MKI combat aircraft at the Lohegaon base here this morning.

Attired in the G-suit the President was enthusiastic and simply raring to go.

He was briefed by Air Officer Commanding in Chief, South Western Air Command (SWAC) Air Marshal P K Mehra.

The Sukhoi 30 was piloted by Wing Commander Ajay Rathore.

The President was given a ''Guard of Honour'' before he began the flight.

The 30-minute Sukhoi fight was the first ever by any Indian President on a fighter aircraft. Dr Kalam went through all the motions required before taking off on the flight.

UNI DWN MJ LR RK1230