Air Force units carry out flag towing missions

ĐBP – On April 27, the Air Defence - Air Force conducted its inaugural flag towing rehearsal session in Điện Biên. This was part of the ceremony commemorating the 70th anniversary of the Điện Biên Phủ Victory.

Technicians attach the flag beneath the helicopter's belly.

During the rehearsal, 11 helicopters completed two flag towing flights. Air Division 371 led this effort, working in conjunction with Air Divisions 370 and 372.

A 20m2 national flag was affixed beneath the Mi17 helicopter. Consequently, along with routine aircraft checks, technicians paid special attention to the flag-hanging mechanism. Crafted from polyester, a durable and breathable material, this special flag features reinforced stitching. These reinforcements ensure that the flags can flutter gracefully in winds of up to 120km/h without tearing.

This special flag withstands winds of up to 120km/h without tearing.

Unlike training or combat flights, flag towing missions demand pilots not only to possess the skills and experience to hang heavy objects hundreds of kilograms below the aircraft but also to coordinate seamlessly with other pilots in terms of altitude, distance, and flight speed to create a visually stunning formation.

Lieutenant Colonel Nguyễn Văn Hoàng, Deputy Political Commissar of the 916th Air Regiment, Air Division 371, emphasised, "Executing flag towing missions under the conditions at Điện Biên Airport, surrounded by towering hills, demands meticulous planning and precision to maintain formation and ensure absolute safety."

By Lan Phương – Hà Linh
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