January 10, 2025 – Air Marshal's Perspective

January 10, 2025

577: DEADLY FORTNIGHT – NINE AIR CRASHES – SEVERAL LESSONS

Pic Courtesy Net

My Article published on the Life of Soldiers website on 10 Jan 25.

Within a single fortnight, the world was rocked by the tragic loss of life in nine separate air crashes. This stark reality serves as a poignant reminder of the ever-present dangers in modern aviation. While air travel is generally safe, these recent disasters underscore the urgent need for unwavering vigilance in aviation safety practices. Each crash presents us with crucial lessons—be it about aircraft technology, crew training, regulatory oversight, or emergency response—that demand immediate attention to prevent further tragedies.

Unfortunate Occurrences

Jeju Plane Crash. The most recent and deadliest crash occurred on December 28, when a Jeju Air passenger aircraft crashed while attempting to land at Muan Airport, South Korea, resulting in 179 fatalities. Reportedly, air traffic control issued a bird strike warning six minutes before the crash. Shortly thereafter, the pilot declared a mayday, indicating immediate distress. The aircraft attempted a belly landing after its landing gear failed to deploy, leading to a skid off the runway. The plane collided with a concrete wall approximately 250 meters from the runway’s end, causing it to burst into flames. This structure housed navigational equipment and has been criticised for its hazardous placement.

Air Canada Mishap. On December 28, Air Canada Express Flight 2259 suffered a landing gear failure upon arriving at Halifax Stanfield International Airport. The aircraft skidded down the runway, its wing catching fire. All 73 passengers and crew were evacuated safely, avoiding injury or fatalities.

Azerbaijan Airlines Crash. Christmas Day, December 25, saw an Embraer ERJ-190AR aircraft operated by Azerbaijan Airlines crash near Aktau Airport in Kazakhstan, killing 38 out of 67 passengers. The Embraer 190AR aircraft was en route from Baku, Azerbaijan, to Grozny, Russia, carrying 62 passengers and five crew members. The plane was reportedly struck by a Russian surface-to-air missile over Chechnya, intended to intercept a Ukrainian drone. This caused significant damage, leading to an attempted emergency landing in Aktau, Kazakhstan, where the plane ultimately crashed.

Small Aircraft Crash in Scotland. On December 23, a small aircraft crashed near Fife Airport in Scotland, killing the 50-year-old pilot. Witnesses reported unusual plane manoeuvres before it plummeted into a field shortly after take-off.

Private Plane Crash in Brazil. Earlier in the month, on December 22, a private plane crashed in Gramado, Brazil, killing ten members of the Galeazzi family, including prominent businessman Luiz Claudio Galeazzi. The accident also injured 17 people on the ground, with two in critical condition. The aircraft took off from Canela Airport under unfavourable weather conditions, including overcast skies and fog. Shortly after take-off, it crashed approximately 3 kilometers from the airport. The plane reportedly struck a building’s chimney, the second floor of a residential structure, and a furniture store before coming to rest. Debris also impacted a nearby inn, leading to fires that caused additional injuries on the ground.

Papua New Guinea Islander Crash. On December 22, a Britten-Norman BN-2B-26 Islander operated by North Coast Aviation crashed in the Sapmanga Valley of Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea. All five people aboard were killed when the plane, travelling from Wasu Airport to Lae-Nadzab Airport. Among the deceased were the pilot, David Sandery, a seasoned bush pilot with over 15,000 hours of flying experience, and four passengers, including government officials and their spouses. The aircraft departed Wasu Airstrip at 10:12 a.m., and a distress signal was received at 10:30 a.m., prompting an emergency response led by the Aviation Rescue Coordination Centre (ARCC). Search efforts were delayed due to adverse weather conditions, but the crash site was eventually located the following morning.

Cessna Accident. On December 20, a Cessna plane en route from Porto Velho to Manaus in Brazil went missing. Its wreckage was found in the Amazon rainforest five days later, with both occupants, pilot Rodrigo Boer Machado, 29, and passenger Breno Braga Leite, tragically confirmed dead. The aircraft, a Cessna with registration PT-JCZ, departed without a flight plan and was undetected on air traffic control radar. The last known GPS location was over the southeast region of Manicoré. An extensive search operation involving the Brazilian Air Force (FAB), civil police, military police, fire department, and sniffer dogs culminated in the discovery of the crash site on December 25. The dense and inaccessible terrain of the Amazon rainforest significantly impeded search efforts.

Kamaka Air Crash in Hawaii. On December 17, a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan, operated by Kamaka Air LLC, crashed near Daniel K Inouye International Airport in Honolulu, Hawaii. On a training flight, the plane lost control shortly after take-off, executing a sharp left bank before crashing into a building. Both pilots perished in the accident. The aircraft, operating as Kamaka Air Flight 689, departed from Honolulu International Airport around 3:15 p.m. local time, bound for Lanai Airport. Shortly after take-off, the plane lost altitude and crashed into a vacant building near the airport. Witnesses reported erratic flight behaviour before the crash, and the pilot’s last communication indicated the aircraft was “out of control.” The two onboard individuals were identified as pilot-in-training Hiram DeFries, 22, and instructor pilot Preston Kaluhiwa.

Argentina Challenger Crash. Another fatal crash occurred on December 17 when a Bombardier BD-100-1A10 Challenger 300 crashed near San Fernando Airport in Argentina, killing both pilots, 35-year-old Agustín Orforte and 44-year-old Martín Fernández Loza. The aircraft was returning from Punta del Este, Uruguay, on a ferry flight with only the two pilots on board. Upon landing at San Fernando Airport, the jet overran the runway, breached the airport perimeter fence, collided with nearby buildings, and caught fire. Eyewitnesses reported that the aircraft failed to decelerate effectively during landing.

Preliminary Lessons and Recommendations

Preliminary lessons from the recent air crashes suggest areas for improvement in aircraft safety, crew training, and regulatory oversight. However, these insights are based on initial assessments. Thorough investigations, which are underway, will provide more precise causes and detailed recommendations. The results of the inquiry will offer a clearer path forward for safety enhancements, reassuring the aviation community about the future of aviation safety.

Runway and the Operating Zone. A solid concrete structure within the runway safety area is a severe safety violation. Adhering to international safety standards is crucial, as the runway operating zone should be free of hard obstacles to allow aircraft to decelerate safely in overrun scenarios. Implementing safety features such as Engineered Materials Arrestor Systems (EMAS) is crucial, but the maintenance of runways is equally important. Ensuring that runways are properly maintained and contaminant-free enhances braking effectiveness and reduces overrun risks. This safety measure cannot be overlooked and should be a priority for all aviation stakeholders.

Wildlife Hazard Management. The incidences of bird strikes near International Airports, attributed to their proximity to bird habitats, underscore the need for enhanced wildlife management strategies. Measures like sound cannons, lasers, warning lights, etc., can mitigate such risks.

Emergency Response Preparedness. The rapid escalation from landing difficulties to a catastrophic fire highlights the need for robust emergency response protocols at airports, including efficient coordination among firefighting units and medical teams to manage such crises effectively.

Timely Search and Rescue Operations. The delay in locating the crash site due to adverse weather highlights the need for robust search and rescue protocols that can operate effectively in challenging conditions. Investing in advanced tracking technologies and improving inter-agency coordination can enhance response times. Deploying adequate resources, including aerial surveillance, ground teams, and technology such as drones, is essential for effective search operations, especially in challenging terrains like dense rainforests. Engaging local communities in emergency response efforts can be beneficial, as they often possess intimate knowledge of the terrain and can assist in search operations.

Flight Planning and Tracking. Operating without a filed flight plan can severely hinder search and rescue operations in an emergency. Filing a flight plan should be mandatory for all flights, regardless of distance or familiarity with the route. Equipping aircraft with real-time tracking devices can provide continuous position updates, enhance situational awareness and expedite location efforts if an aeroplane goes missing. Regular maintenance and testing of emergency locator transmitters (ELTs) is crucial to ensure they activate correctly during a crash, facilitating prompt search and rescue operations.

Weather Assessment and Decision-Making. Some of these incidents underscore the critical importance of thorough weather assessments before flight, especially in regions prone to rapid weather changes. Pilots must evaluate current and forecasted conditions to make informed go/no-go decisions. Operating in poor visibility necessitates strict compliance with IFR procedures. Pilots should be adequately trained and current in instrument flying to navigate safely under such conditions.

Airspace Management in Conflict Zones. Comprehensive risk assessments are necessary when planning flight paths over or near active conflict zones. Airlines must evaluate potential threats, including military activities, to ensure passenger safety. Enhanced communication is crucial, and real-time information sharing can help reroute flights from emerging threats. International aviation bodies may need to revisit policies to protect civilian aircraft from becoming inadvertent targets.

Aircraft Design and Redundancy. The simultaneous failure of multiple systems, including landing gear and possibly engine components, raises concerns about the aircraft’s design redundancies. A thorough review of safety features is warranted to ensure they can withstand multiple concurrent failures.

Aircraft Maintenance and Performance. Ensuring that aircraft are maintained in optimal condition is vital for safe operations. Adherence to maintenance schedules and promptly addressing any identified issues can prevent mechanical failures. Comprehensive pre-flight checks and adherence to maintenance schedules can prevent mechanical failures. Accurate calculations of aircraft performance, considering weight, balance, and environmental conditions, are essential to ensure safe take-off and climb capabilities.

Pilot Training and Proficiency. These crashes highlight the need for regular training in emergency procedures, including handling unexpected situations during critical phases of flight like take-off and landing. Pilots should be well-prepared to manage emergencies effectively to enhance survival outcomes. Regular simulation of emergency scenarios can better prepare pilots to handle unexpected situations during actual flights. Training should emphasise decision-making skills under pressure to improve pilots’ ability to manage in-flight emergencies.

Stabilised Approach and Landing. Ensuring the aircraft maintains a stable approach path, speed, and configuration is critical for a safe landing. Deviations should prompt a go-around decision. Pilots should assess landing performance by considering runway length, surface conditions, and aircraft weight to ensure adequate stopping distance. Pilots should be trained to execute go-arounds decisively when approach parameters are not met rather than attempting to salvage an unstable approach.

Flight Data Recording. Under the Civil Aviation Safety Authority regulations, some smaller aircraft are not required to have a black box installed. However, equipping even small aircraft with flight data recorders can provide valuable information in accident investigations and help prevent future occurrences.

Conclusion

These tragedies serve as a sombre reminder of the complexities and risks inherent in modern aviation. While the loss of life is deeply tragic, it highlights the urgent need for proactive safety measures. The challenges in aviation are multifaceted, encompassing factors such as weather-related decision-making, pilot proficiency, urban flight operations, aircraft maintenance, emergency response coordination, equipment standards, communications, airport safety protocols, and search-and-rescue operations. As investigations unfold, further insights are expected to guide policy changes and safety improvements to prevent future tragedies. Implementing these lessons is essential to strengthening the safety and security of international aviation, while continuous improvements in emergency preparedness will help mitigate risks and enhance overall safety.

Your valuable comments are most welcome.

Link to the article on the website:-

https://www.lifeofsoldiers.com/2025/01/10/deadly-fortnight-nine-air-crashes-several-lessons/

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References and credits

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References:-

Graham, J. D., & Aigner, M. E. (2024). The Jeju Air Crash: A Detailed Analysis of the Muan Airport Tragedy. International Journal of Aviation Safety, 42(1), 12-34.

Kipling, T. (2024). The Christmas Day Azerbaijan Airlines Crash: An Investigation into Aircraft Performance and Weather Impact. Aviation Accident Quarterly, 68(3), 45-62.

Simpson, M., & Harrington, J. (2023). Aviation Safety in the South Pacific: The Papua New Guinea Crash. Journal of Aviation and Aeronautics, 32(4), 90-102.

Walker, R. (2023). Private Aviation Crashes in Brazil: A Case Study of the Galeazzi Family Tragedy. Air Safety Report, 19(2), 75-87.

BBC News. (2023, December 28). Jeju Air Crash: At Least 170 Dead in South Korean Aviation Tragedy. BBC News.

CNN Aviation. (2023, December 25). Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer Crash Near Aktau Airport. CNN.

Reuters. (2023, December 22). Brazil Plane Crash Kills Ten Members of Prominent Family in Gramado. Reuters.

Aviation Safety Network. (2023). Summary of the Kamaka Air Crash in Hawaii. Aviation Safety Network.

International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). (2022). Global Aviation Safety Plan 2022-2025. ICAO.

Shappell, S. A., & Wiegmann, D. A. (2017). Aviation Safety Programs: A Management Handbook. CRC Press.

Disclaimer:

Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.

January 10, 2025

576: WINGS OF THE ARMY: THE ROLE OF THE AIR ARM IN GROUND OPERATIONS

My article published in the News Analytics Journal in the Jan 25 issue.

The air arm of ground forces plays a pivotal role in modern military operations, blending speed, precision, and versatility to support soldiers on the battlefield. This specialised component acts as the army’s eyes, ears, and extended arms in the skies, transforming the dynamics of ground warfare.

Roles and Functions.

One of the air arm’s primary functions is reconnaissance and surveillance. Aerial platforms, including helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), scout enemy positions, map terrain, and monitor troop movements, providing commanders with critical, real-time intelligence. This enables informed decision-making and swift strategy adjustment.

Battlefield air support (BAS) is another indispensable function. Attack helicopters, like the AH-64 Apache, deliver devastating firepower to suppress enemy forces and protect ground troops during engagements. The air arm’s ability to provide precision strikes ensures minimal collateral damage while maximising effectiveness against enemy targets.

Logistical support is equally vital. Transport helicopters, such as the CH-47 Chinook, and utility aircraft ensure rapid troop deployment, evacuation of casualties, and delivery of supplies to remote or contested areas. This mobility is particularly crucial in fast-moving or rugged battle environments.

Additionally, the air arm facilitates aerial assault operations, allowing soldiers to penetrate deep behind enemy lines. Airborne units, often deployed via helicopters or paratroopers, execute high-risk missions quickly.

Evolution of the Army Aviation Corps: From Observation Balloons to Modern-Day UAVs

The Army Aviation Corps has transformed remarkably, from humble beginnings with observation balloons to the sophisticated use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in modern warfare. The journey began in the late 19th century when armies employed tethered observation balloons for reconnaissance. These early platforms provided a bird’s-eye view of enemy positions, revolutionising battlefield intelligence during conflicts like the American Civil War. Though rudimentary, they laid the groundwork for integrating air assets into military strategy.

The advent of fixed-wing aircraft during World War I marked the next leap. Early planes were primarily used for reconnaissance, but their roles expanded to include artillery spotting, aerial photography, and limited combat capabilities. By World War II, technological advances saw the introduction of transport planes and gliders, enabling airborne troops and rapid logistics support. The post-war era witnessed the rise of helicopters, which became a defining feature of the Army Aviation Corps. Their ability to hover, land in tight spaces, and provide mobility in rugged terrain revolutionised ground-air coordination.

In recent decades, the focus has shifted to Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). These platforms provide real-time surveillance, precision strikes, and electronic warfare capabilities. UAVs represent the pinnacle of automation and efficiency, operating in high-risk environments without endangering human lives.

Air Mobility in Warzones: The Key to Quick Reaction Forces

Air mobility has emerged as a critical enabler for Quick Reaction Forces (QRF) in modern warfare, providing speed, flexibility, and reach in rapidly evolving conflict zones. The ability to deploy troops, equipment, and supplies swiftly via aircraft ensures that military operations can respond effectively to threats or seize opportunities on the battlefield.

Helicopters are at the heart of air mobility in war zones. Aircraft like the UH-60 Black Hawk and CH-47 Chinook enable the rapid transport of soldiers and cargo to areas inaccessible by land due to rugged terrain, enemy activity, or time constraints. Their versatility allows QRFs to respond to emergencies such as ambushes, breakthroughs, or sudden escalations with minimal delay.

Another vital function of air mobility is medical evacuation (MEDEVAC), a role that underscores the life-saving impact of the air arm’s operations. In warzones, helicopters equipped with medical facilities extract wounded personnel from the battlefield, often saving lives by providing care within the critical ‘golden hour.’ Additionally, fixed-wing aircraft contribute to air mobility by transporting larger payloads over longer distances, facilitating the movement of reinforcements, heavy equipment, and critical supplies to support ongoing operations.

Helicopters in Combat: The Backbone of the Army’s Air Arm

Helicopters have revolutionised modern warfare. They serve as the backbone of the army’s air arm and offer unparalleled mobility, versatility, and firepower. Their adaptability allows them to serve in various roles, from swift troop deployments to battlefield air support, ensuring operational success in dynamic combat environments.

Air mobility is one of their most significant contributions, allowing forces to bypass terrain obstacles and reach otherwise inaccessible areas. Their ability to insert and extract units in active combat zones is pivotal for rapid response and maintaining the momentum of operations.

In combat, attack helicopters have redefined battlefield tactics. Armed with precision-guided missiles, rockets, and advanced targeting systems, these helicopters provide close air support by neutralising enemy tanks, vehicles, and fortified positions. Their agility and firepower make them indispensable for suppressing threats and protecting ground forces.

Modern technological advancements have further enhanced combat helicopters’ capabilities. Night vision systems, stealth features, and advanced avionics allow them to operate effectively in diverse conditions, from deserts to dense urban landscapes.

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS): Expanding the Army’s Air Arm

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, have revolutionised modern warfare, becoming an indispensable part of the army’s air arm. Their ability to operate without a human pilot on board, combined with advanced technology, has significantly expanded the army’s operational capabilities.

One of the most prominent roles of UAS is reconnaissance and surveillance. Equipped with high-resolution cameras and sensors, drones provide real-time intelligence to ground forces. They monitor enemy movements, map terrain, and identify threats, enabling commanders to make informed decisions quickly and accurately. UAS also excel in precision strikes, delivering munitions with remarkable accuracy. Armed drones have become a game-changer in counterterrorism and asymmetric warfare, allowing the army to target adversaries with minimal risk to soldiers and reduced collateral damage.

In addition to combat roles, drones support logistics and resupply missions, particularly in contested or remote areas. Lightweight delivery drones are increasingly used to transport critical supplies like ammunition and medical equipment directly to frontline units. The versatility of UAS extends to communication and electronic warfare. Some drones act as airborne relays, maintaining communication between dispersed units, while others are equipped for electronic jamming or cyber operations.

The armies worldwide are exploring new capabilities as technology advances, including autonomous swarming drones that can overwhelm enemy defences and AI-powered UAS for independent mission execution. These innovations promise to enhance battlefield efficiency further.

Airborne Forces: From Paratroopers to Aerial Assault Units

Airborne forces remain a critical component of military strategy. They have long been a symbol of speed, surprise, and tactical precision in military operations. These elite units, deployed via aircraft, have evolved from traditional paratroopers to versatile aerial assault units capable of executing complex missions in modern warfare.

The origins of airborne forces date back to World War II when paratroopers were first used to disrupt enemy defences by landing behind their lines. Iconic operations like D-Day and the Battle of Arnhem showcased the effectiveness of this approach. Dropped from transport planes, paratroopers brought the element of surprise, cutting off reinforcements and capturing key objectives.

As warfare evolved, so did the role of airborne forces. Modern aerial assault units, often deployed via helicopters, now complement traditional parachute operations. Helicopters like the UH-60 Black Hawk and CH-47 Chinook have transformed these units into highly mobile and adaptable forces. Unlike static parachute drops, helicopters provide precision insertion, allowing soldiers to land precisely where needed, even in hostile or rugged terrain.

Airborne forces excel in executing high-risk missions, such as seizing enemy strongholds, conducting raids, and rescuing hostages. Their ability to deploy rapidly and strike deep behind enemy lines makes them a valuable asset in asymmetric warfare. Advances in technology, such as improved navigation systems and night vision equipment, have further enhanced their effectiveness.

Integrated Air-Ground Operations: A New Era in Combined Arms Tactics

Modern warfare has entered a new era where the integration of air and ground forces is redefining battlefield tactics. Known as integrated air-ground operations, this approach emphasises the seamless coordination of assets in the air and on the ground to achieve strategic objectives with precision and efficiency.

The foundation of this synergy lies in real-time communication and intelligence sharing. Advanced systems enable ground commanders to direct air assets, such as fighter jets, attack helicopters, and drones, to provide battlefield air support (BAS), reconnaissance, and logistical aid. Simultaneously, aerial platforms transmit critical data about enemy positions and terrain, giving ground forces a tactical advantage.

The success of these operations depends on joint planning, extensive training, interoperable equipment, and shared strategic objectives. Integrated air-ground tactics have transformed warfare, ensuring that armies can operate as unified, adaptive forces capable of dominating complex and dynamic battlefields.

Air Arm of the Indian Army

The Air Arm of the Indian Army, officially known as the Army Aviation Corps (AAC), plays a vital role in enhancing the Indian Army’s operational capabilities. It was established in 1986 to provide specialised aviation support to ground forces, operating helicopters and other aircraft to support various military and logistical operations. Over the years, the Army Aviation Corps has become indispensable to the Indian Army’s combat and support operations.

The Indian Army’s aviation capabilities are especially significant given India’s diverse geography, including the Himalayas, dense forests, and vast border regions. The ability to swiftly deploy troops and supplies via air ensures that the army can maintain high operational readiness, even in areas with limited infrastructure.

The future of the Indian Army’s air arm involves integrating advanced technologies, such as UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) for surveillance and reconnaissance, next-generation helicopters like the Apache AH-64E attack helicopters, and a fleet of indigenous helicopters.

The Army Aviation Corps remains a key component as India modernises its military forces. It ensures rapid reaction and mobility for ground forces and significantly enhances India’s strategic defence capabilities.

The Future of the Army’s Air Arm: Emerging Technologies and Strategic Challenges

The future of the Army’s air arm is poised for a transformation driven by emerging technologies that promise to redefine the way ground forces conduct operations and engage in warfare. The air arm’s capabilities will expand from autonomous systems to advanced weaponry, bringing new opportunities and strategic challenges for military planners and decision-makers.

One of the most significant technological advancements on the horizon is the growing use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). These systems offer several advantages, including reduced risk to personnel, long endurance surveillance, and the ability to strike targets with precision. Future UAVs are expected to become more autonomous and capable of performing missions without direct human intervention. This shift could lead to the development of swarming drones, where multiple UAVs operate in unison, overwhelming enemy defences and providing real-time intelligence to ground forces.

Artificial intelligence (AI) will further enhance the operational efficiency of the Army’s air arm. AI-powered drones and helicopters can make real-time decisions based on battlefield data, optimising flight paths, targeting, and coordination with ground forces. This increased automation will allow air assets to act faster and more decisively, potentially reducing the reliance on human operators and increasing battlefield agility.

Another key focus area is the development of next-generation helicopters and vertical lift aircraft. Newer platforms with tilt-rotor design promise to deliver unprecedented speed, range, and agility, enabling faster troop insertion, mobility in complex terrains, and effective response to emerging threats.

Innovation and adaptation will shape the future of the Army’s air arm. As technology evolves, so must the strategies for effectively utilising air assets in combat, humanitarian missions, and national defence. The integration of advanced technologies and the challenges of modern warfare will determine how the air arm continues to shape the outcome of military operations in the years to come.

Conclusion. The air arm is not just a support element but a force multiplier, bridging the gap between land and air operations. Its unmatched ability to provide reconnaissance, firepower, and mobility ensures ground forces maintain their tactical edge, making it an indispensable component of today’s armies. As modern warfare increasingly relies on hybrid strategies, integrating air-ground coordination and joint operations between air forces and ground units continues to be a strategic focus for armies globally. In modern warfare, air and ground forces integration has become increasingly seamless. Advanced communication systems enable real-time coordination, ensuring air assets complement ground manoeuvres effectively. The future of army aviation will likely see further advancements in combat helicopter design, drone warfare, and next-generation vertical lift aircraft to enhance mobility, lethality, and precision in ground operations.