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Journalism of Courage
Even as the first batch of would-be IAF fighter pilots prepare to train on their new Hawk Advanced Jet Trainers at the Royal Air Force Valley, the Air Headquarters is busy lobbying with the Defence Ministry for a hike in their allowances.
It is learnt that the Defence Ministry had agreed to a per diem allowance of only four pounds a day to the trainee pilots. But it was forced to reconsider its decision when the Air HQ pointed out that even coffee costs more than a pound.
South Block sources said the IAF has sent representations to the Defence Ministry, stating that more than 25 per cent of the salary should be paid as DA to ensure that the officers have a comfortable stay. And while the matter is being sorted out, the Defence Ministry has asked the Air Attache in London to be a ‘‘father figure’’ to the six pilots while they train at RAF Valley.
The six Flying Officers, fresh from the Air Force Academy, are being groomed for the gruelling schedule ahead. According to sources, they have been given extra flying hours on the Kiran Mark-II used for stage-two flying and also extra lessons to prepare for landing, using special equipment such as the Instrument Landing Systems.
While Air Chief Marshal S. Krishnaswamy is in Britain this week on a final review of arrangements before the pilots take off, the RAF is busy adding lessons to its regular training regimen for the IAF.
