Trust biggest factor in aerobatics, says Sarang leader

IAF helicopter team collaborates with Suryakiran aerobatic fighter jet team for the first time ever

After a year of calamity relief operations, the Sarang helicopter team is busy with something never attempted before: a joint aerobatic show with the Suryakiran fighter jet team. Sarang has 16 pilots on board with one woman pilot among them. Sqn Ldr Manoj, unit pilot of Sarang, spoke to Metrolife on how new challenges bring out the best in his team.

How did the Sarang practise during the pandemic year? What were the challenges involved?

We have been practising at the base more this year as it was not possible to perform in front of a large gathering. We did a couple of displays for military events though.

Were your helicopters busy with relief work this past year?

Yes. That’s one role we extensively carry out and the team is immensely proud of that. Last year was no different during cyclone Nivar. We were deployed at various places for mercy missions.

How is it to perform a combined display with the Suryakiran this year?

It has been a challenge in itself, given the fact that such a feat has never been thought about or tried before, by any other country or military.

The speed and characteristics of both these aerial platforms speak for themselves and gives you an idea of how unique and different they are.

All four Sarang helicopters in the Aero India show are fitted with smoke generators. How does that enhance the display?

In recent times, we have been able to get coloured smoke, a result of hard work put in by all our engineers and technicians. We did our Republic Day fly past with tricolour smoke.

What are the risks involved in close formations?

The risk is always there but it is mitigated by extensive training and professionalism in the air. Planning involves years of dedicated work and focused effort by all team members. A lot of brainstorming goes into making a good plan. And daily flying helps aerobatic flying. Focus and safety are key.

What training is required to handle the Sarang?

It includes a gradual build-up of aircrew capabilities for display and knowing each other’s position in time and space at any given point of time.

Trust is a huge factor, isn’t it?

Trust is the biggest factor because each one is responsible for the eight lives in the air. So each pilot’s recommendation is taken when a new pilot is taken into the team.

The time spent on ground is extensive since every aspect of the sortie profile must be understood by the pilot. There must be no iota of doubt before the crew steps into the cockpit. The training involves learning from previous mistakes.

It is a never-ending learning process because every single day and every single time you are airborne you learn something new.

How do you keep your spirits high?

A display pilot needs to be a balanced combination of fiery attitude and serenity in mind. These two traits help him enjoy the adrenaline pumping and stay focused.