The Final Flight of the MiG-21: A Heartfelt Farewell to an Icon
Mumbai: Tomorrow, a significant chapter in Indian aviation history comes to a close as the MiG-21, a beloved aircraft known for its grace and strength, takes its last flight. This Russian-built beauty has graced the skies of India for almost sixty years, and its farewell marks the end of an era that many will remember fondly.
The MiG-21, designed by the Mikoyan-Gurevich Design Bureau of the former Soviet Union, became part of the Indian Air Force in 1963. Over the years, India has acquired more than 870 of these jets, making them a vital part of the nation’s air defense. They played crucial roles in the 1965 and 1971 wars against Pakistan and were instrumental during the Kargil War in 1999 and the Balakot airstrike in 2019.
However, the MiG-21 also gained a notorious reputation in recent times due to safety concerns and accidents, with some referring to it as a “flying coffin.” Nevertheless, it is important to look back at the legacy it leaves behind and the memories it created for the pilots who flew it. A grand farewell ceremony is set to take place at Chandigarh, where the MiG-21s will take to the skies one last time.
One pilot, Wing Commander Avinash Chikthe (Retd), reflects on his deep connection with the MiG-21. It was 43 years ago when he first encountered this magnificent aircraft at the tender age of 21. “It was love at first sight,” he recalls, describing the aircraft’s impressive presence glistening in the sun. For pilots and naval officers alike, there has always been a special emotional bond with their machines.
Chikthe expressed his mixed emotions, admitting he had doubts as a young pilot. “I had only 175 hours of flying experience, and I wondered if I was ready to fly the MiG-21, which I lovingly nicknamed ‘Teekshna’ or ‘the sharp one,'” he shared. His first flight lasted a mere few minutes, but soon he amassed over 2,255 hours of flying time in the aircraft. Today, he serves as a senior instructor at a commercial airline, yet the memories of flying the MiG-21 remain vivid.
“Once you fasten your seatbelt, you feel like a part of the aircraft. Every touch on the joystick prompts an immediate response. It felt like a mother, a friend, and a guide all at once, bringing me safely back home,” said Chikthe. Flying a warplane is far more demanding than operating a commercial aircraft, as safety and stability weren’t its primary designs.
The MiG-21 presented several challenges, particularly in maintaining stability at low speeds. During his career, Chikthe faced numerous difficulties but managed to overcome them with training and respect for the aircraft’s capabilities. There was a memorable occasion when he was flying over the sea and the engine cut out after a bird strike; however, his experience helped him restart the engine and land safely.
“In another incident, while flying at just 60 meters above the ground near Amritsar at night, I almost descended without realizing it. Fortunately, the aircraft warned me, or I might have ended up in a field,” he recounted, showcasing the unwavering bond between a pilot and their machine.
Even in his later years of service, the MiG-21 remained a powerhouse, with Chikthe recalling his last engagement in 2019 when he successfully took down a Pakistani F-16. “My MiG-21 and I shared one last joyous flight together,” he said with pride.
As this iconic fighter jet bids farewell, Chikthe observes, “Even after our final goodbye, I will feel our spirits flying together.” With heartfelt nostalgia, he says, “Dasvidaniya,” signifying ‘until we meet again’ in Russian.
The MiG-21 has truly earned its place in the hearts of many and will be remembered not only for its historical significance but also for the personal stories of pilots like Chikthe who dared to take to the skies.
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Original Text – https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/india/mig-21-retirement-avinash-chikte-p81ki8px