Image credits - Hindustan Times
Wing Commander Jaspreet Singh Sandhu was honored with the Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) by President Droupadi Murmu for his courageous actions during a critical flight incident. On January 25, 2024, Sandhu encountered a severe and unprecedented aerodynamic control emergency while conducting an Airframe and Engine Check sortie on a Bison aircraft.
Upon landing, the deployment of the tail chute triggered a vicious yaw to the right. Attempting to correct the aircraft’s direction with the left rudder, Sandhu faced unexpected obstruction in the rudder pedal movement, a situation for which there were no predefined emergency procedures. Sandhu faced a perilous challenge with the aircraft’s rudder, essential for both in-flight control and ground braking, locked in a neutral position despite maximum manual effort.
The aircraft, affected by adverse crosswinds and lacking effective directional control, began drifting to the starboard side during the landing roll. In this high-speed, time-sensitive scenario, Sandhu remained calm and composed. He promptly applied full brakes and switched off the aircraft, successfully bringing it to a halt on the right lane of the runway without causing damage to the wheel brakes or tires.
The Ministry of Defence commended Sandhu’s bravery, highlighting his quick thinking and resolute actions that ensured the safety of the aircraft and its operational integrity. His extraordinary response under pressure exemplifies the highest standards of gallantry and dedication.