Pilots awarded wings in Southern Naval command

In a first of its kind, three pilots were awarded 'wings' on successful completion of the basic Dornier Conversion Course during an impressive ceremonial parade at INS Garuda, the Naval Air Station here.
The ceremony thus witnessed the transition of the young officers into pilots of Indian Navy's formidable maritime reconnaissance arm, a Navy press release said here today.
Rear Admiral K Ravikiran, Admiral Superintendent of the Yard, NSRY (Kochi) reviewed the parade and awarded the 'wings' to passing out officers.
Departing from the usual practice of being trained by the Indian Air Force, the passing out officers were trained at INAS 550, a premier Air Squadron of INS Garuda, the release said.

During the 26-week course, the officers were introduced to various aspects of Dornier operations with an aim to enhance their proficiency in Multi Engine flying.