ANNUAL NAVAL FLIGHT SAFETY MEETING (NFSM) AND FLIGHT SAFETY SEMINAR (FSS) - 2024

Flight Safety Seminar (FSS) and Annual Naval Flight Safety Meeting (NFSM) for year 2024 were successfully conducted on 12-13 Nov at INS Dega, Visakhapatnam under the aegis of the Headquarters Eastern Naval Command. Flight Safety Seminar commenced on 12 Nov, with the Chief guest, Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Eastern Naval Command, delivering the key note address.

Centering on the theme "Emerging Threats and Challenges - Naval Air Operations and Compliance with Flight Safety," the seminar focused on contemporary topics, including Advancements in Counter-UAV/ UAS Technologies and Tactics, Cyber Security Risks in Aviation Operations and Countermeasures for Aircraft Systems. The importance of 'mindfulness training' for mental resilience during air operations was also deliberated upon.

The discussions encouraged a holistic approach to managing emerging operational risks, emphasizing the need for shared vigilance across services for safeguarding aerial assets. The engaging exchange of views underscored the growing need for adaptive and proactive safety strategies, particular to challenges in modern Naval Aviation. Representatives from the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, Indian Coast Guard and prominent defence organisations such as HAL also attended the event.

On 13 Nov, the NFSM brought together key flight safety stakeholders of the Indian Navy, with Rear Admiral Janak Bevil, Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Air) presiding over the meeting. Safety concurs across the Navy were elaborated upon with the aim of operational risk management to ensure safe flying while meeting all operational missions. Discussions included the latest trends in bird and animal hazard mitigation.

Both days of the event featured engaging panel discussions and expert-led presentations, underscoring the Indian Navy's commitment to enhancing flight safety protocols and ensuring the highest standards of readiness in naval aviation.

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VM/SR/SKY 242/24