General Dhiraj Seth, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), presented the COAS Flight Safety Trophy to two Army Aviation squadrons during the ongoing Army Commanders’ Conference (ACC) in New Delhi on October 22, 2026. The recognition was based on their record in aviation safety, operational discipline and professional standards.
The award recipients were 665 Army Aviation Squadron (Reconnaissance and Observation) in the Single-Engine Category and 209 Army Aviation Squadron (Utility Helicopter) in the Twin-Engine Category. Both units were singled out for maintaining the standards linked to safe flying and operational professionalism.
The COAS Flight Safety Trophy was instituted to recognise Army Aviation units that uphold high levels of flight safety and follow established aviation safety procedures. The award also reflects the Indian Army’s stated emphasis on keeping safety culture strong while sustaining operational readiness across its aviation fleet.
The competition was held in two categories so that squadrons using different types of helicopters could be assessed fairly. The Single-Engine Category covered units operating single-engine helicopters, while the Twin-Engine Category evaluated units using twin-engine platforms.
This division takes into account the different operating characteristics, technical demands and safety factors associated with the two helicopter classes.
665 Army Aviation Squadron (R&O) emerged as the winner in the Single-Engine Category. Its recognition points to its performance in flight safety and operational discipline.
Reconnaissance and Observation squadrons support ground formations through aerial reconnaissance, surveillance, observation and other operational tasks. Such roles are important for providing awareness to formations on the ground.
These missions can involve flying in difficult environments, including mountainous regions, challenging terrain and areas where weather may change quickly. In such conditions, strict safety standards are essential for effective and reliable operations.
In the Twin-Engine Category, 209 Army Aviation Squadron (UH) received the trophy for its performance in maintaining aviation safety standards. Utility helicopter squadrons support Army formations through transport, logistical assistance and other operational requirements.
The recognition of both squadrons also points to the role of disciplined flying, maintenance procedures, crew coordination and adherence to operational guidelines in safe aviation activity.
The award further acknowledges the contribution of pilots, technical personnel, maintenance teams and ground support staff who help sustain safe and effective flying operations.
Army Aviation remains important to the Indian Army’s mobility, battlefield awareness and operational flexibility. Its helicopters are used for reconnaissance, troop movement, casualty evacuation, logistical support and missions in remote or hard-to-access areas.
Because military helicopter operations are demanding, flight safety remains central to Army Aviation’s effectiveness. Weather, terrain, aircraft serviceability, pilot proficiency and mission planning all require continuous attention to reduce risk.
The COAS Flight Safety Trophy functions as an institutional incentive for aviation units to maintain professional standards and strengthen safety practices in their day-to-day operations.
Its presentation during the ACC also placed aviation safety before the Army’s senior leadership. The conference is a key forum where senior Army leaders discuss operational preparedness, organisational priorities, capability development and other matters affecting the force.
By honouring the two squadrons at the conference, the Indian Army reinforced the message that operational excellence must go together with safety, professionalism and accountability.
The recognition of 665 Army Aviation Squadron and 209 Army Aviation Squadron reflects the collective effort involved in flying operations and the standards expected across Army Aviation.
The awards reaffirm the Indian Army’s commitment to building a strong flight safety culture as it continues to operate helicopters across diverse and demanding environments.
