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Fighter aircraft crashes were a cause of concern but they had not in any way affected the operational preparedness of the IAF, Tipnis told newspersons in Ahmedabad.
On how the IAF's operational efficiency remain untouched when MIG-21s, which formed its core group of fighters, accounted for the largest casualties and damage to machinery, he said, "Acquisition of aircraft and training of men, including pilots, are done taking into consideration the possible chances of accidents, which could result in loss of aircraft and pilots."
"Therefore, whatever losses the IAF has incurred, it was regularly being made up for through long-term strategy," he said.
Tipnis, who retires on December 31, said average aircraft accident rate of the IAF has shown a 'downward trend'.
Tipnis said the series of accidents involving MIG-21s has created an impression that the aircraft were lacking in performance, which was far from the truth.
Though the media has been referring to it as a 'flying coffin', the IAF chief said, "The MIG-21 is a demanding aircraft despite being designed in the 1950s. It does not forgive any lapse in concentration and manoeouvring."
"Accidents happen when you stretch any machine beyond its enduring capabilities. Each aircraft has some technical problems and the MIG-21 is no exception. However, in many of the accidents, it has been found that they have occurred due to pilot errors," he said.
The IAF conducts regular servicing of its aircraft, every component is serviced and the aircraft are periodically overhauled to keep them airworthy, Tipnis said.
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