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Unseen Heroes Of Aero India 2025
Amid the roaring jets and breathtaking aerial displays of Aero India 2025, there exists a team of unseen heroes working behind the scenes. They are the Bird Watcher Men, a special team of 17 personnel from the Indian Air Force, who scan the skies tirelessly throughout the five-day event. Their mission? To ensure that no untoward incidents occur mid-air due to bird activity, safeguarding pilots, aircraft, and spectators alike.
Guardians of the Skies
Positioned strategically across the Yelahanka Air Base and Air Traffic Control (ATC) at Yelahanka Air Force Station, these unsung heroes operate with unwavering vigilance. Armed with walkie-talkies and keen eyesight, they monitor the airspace relentlessly, coordinating in real-time with the ATC team. Their observations and timely alerts are instrumental in granting aircraft clearance for takeoff, manoeuvres, and landing, ensuring the seamless execution of aerial performances.
The Growing Challenge of Bird Menace
According to an Air Force officer handling ATC operations at Yelahanka, the bird menace has escalated in recent times, largely due to increasing garbage mismanagement. He emphasized that a shift in public mindset regarding waste disposal is essential to mitigate this threat. “We don’t harm the birds, but we must deter them,” he explained. Birds pose a significant risk to pilots and aircraft, making the Bird Watcher Men’s role all the more critical.
The Nerve Center of Operations: ATC
The ATC stands at the heart of Air Force operations, managing not just air traffic but also providing crucial alerts. For Aero India 2025, the ATC team is overseeing around 70 aircraft, including those on static display and those flying sorties. Additionally, they handle 40-50 flights carrying military equipment, cargo, and customer flights. Operating round the clock in shifts, the ATC team begins their day as early as 5 AM, meticulously reviewing flight schedules and preparing for a dynamic day filled with constant changes.
One of their most demanding moments came on February 10, when in just 10 minutes, they managed 52 aircraft flying within their airspace. This high-pressure situation demanded precision, coordination, and absolute focus to ensure smooth operations and avoid mishaps.
The Role of Bird Watchers in Seamless Operations
Apart from working in tandem with Kempegowda International Airport and HAL Airport, the ATC team ensures that the runway and manoeuvring areas remain free of foreign objects. Here, the team of bird watchers play a pivotal role. With a dedicated frequency for airshow aircraft, they maintain constant communication with pilots, issuing timely alerts and granting takeoff and landing permissions.
Next time you witness the grandeur of Aero India, take a moment to appreciate these unseen heroes, standing firm on the ground to protect those soaring above.
