General Dhiraj Seth Awards COAS Flight Safety Trophy to 665 and 209 Army Aviation Squadrons in New Delhi

New Delhi, October 22, 2026: Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth presented the COAS Flight Safety Trophy to two Army Aviation squadrons during the ongoing Army Commanders’ Conference, recognising their performance in flight safety, operational discipline and professional standards.

The awards went to 665 Army Aviation Squadron (Reconnaissance and Observation) in the Single-Engine Category and 209 Army Aviation Squadron (Utility Helicopter) in the Twin-Engine Category. The trophy is instituted to recognise Army Aviation units that maintain the highest standards of flight safety, operational professionalism and compliance with established aviation safety procedures.

The competition was organised in two categories to allow a fair evaluation of squadrons operating different kinds of helicopters. The Single-Engine Category covered units flying single-engine helicopters, while the Twin-Engine Category assessed units operating twin-engine platforms. The division reflects the different technical demands, operating characteristics and safety considerations associated with each class of aircraft.

665 Army Aviation Squadron (R&O) was declared the winner in the Single-Engine Category. The squadron’s recognition reflects its adherence to flight safety norms and operational discipline. Reconnaissance and Observation squadrons play a key role in supporting ground formations through aerial reconnaissance, surveillance, observation and other operational tasks.

Such missions often require crews to operate in difficult conditions, including mountainous terrain, challenging landscapes and weather that can change quickly. In that environment, strict safety standards are essential to keeping operations reliable and effective.

In the Twin-Engine Category, 209 Army Aviation Squadron (UH) received the trophy for maintaining aviation safety standards. Utility helicopter squadrons provide important support to Army formations through transportation, logistical tasks and other operational requirements.

The recognition of both squadrons also highlights the importance of disciplined flying, sound maintenance practices, coordinated crew performance and adherence to operational guidelines. The award reflects not only the performance of the flying crews but also the contribution of technical personnel, maintenance teams and ground support staff who enable safe and effective operations.

Army Aviation plays a central role in increasing the Indian Army’s mobility, battlefield awareness and operational flexibility. Its helicopters support a wide range of tasks, including reconnaissance, troop movement, casualty evacuation, logistics support and operations in remote and hard-to-access areas.

Because military helicopter operations are demanding, flight safety remains a critical part of Army Aviation’s overall effectiveness. Weather, terrain, aircraft serviceability, pilot proficiency and mission planning all require continuous attention to reduce risk and sustain safe flying operations.

The COAS Flight Safety Trophy serves as an institutional incentive for aviation units to maintain professional standards and strengthen safety practices across their work. Its presentation during the Army Commanders’ Conference also placed aviation safety before the Army’s senior leadership, which is meeting to discuss operational preparedness, organisational priorities, capability development and other issues affecting the force’s effectiveness.

By honouring the two squadrons at the conference, the Indian Army reinforced that operational excellence must go together with safety, professionalism and accountability. The recognition also reflects the broader effort to build and sustain a strong flight safety culture across Army Aviation as the service continues to operate helicopters in diverse and demanding environments.