The Indian air force has resumed flying activities with its Sukhoi Su-30MKI combat aircraft, after lifting a grounding order imposed following an uncommanded ejection involving the type on 21 October.
“Flying with the Su-30MKIs has resumed from 14 November”, and the air force is “satisfied with the changes that have been carried out on all aeroplanes across the entire fleet”, the service says. “The court of inquiry set up to probe the accident is expected to have its report finalised and submitted by this weekend,” it adds.
India operates an estimated 200 Su-30MKIs, with the example lost in the recent mishap – SB 050 – having been acquired directly from Russia. Production of the type continues at Hindustan Aeronautics’ Nasik facility, wheremore than 150 of a planned 222 of the aircraft have already been delivered. The remaining on-contract strike aircraft will be handed over by 2018-2019.
Source: FlightGlobal.com
