Skip to main content
RSAF
  1. Home
  2. About us
  3. History
  4. History of the RSAF
  5. 2015/01 - AirAsia QZ8501 Search Operation
Third generation (2006 to present)

2015/01 - AirAsia QZ8501 Search Operation

AirAsia QZ8501 Search Operation

AS-332 Super Puma

Lockheed C-130 Hercules

2015

Pilot in flight suit gives a thumbs-up near a helicopter with a panther decal.
Pilot in flight suit and helmet uses binoculars inside helicopter, looking out window.
Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong with navy officers in camouflage uniforms, heads bowed.
Dark interior shows people in uniforms and yellow vests, looking out the window of an aircraft.

“When my superior informed me that the RSAF was looking for volunteers, I volunteered for the first flight today. As military personnel, our job is not just to see to the daily maintenance of RSAF systems. We also have to participate in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief missions like this and do what we can to help those in need."

“Being involved in a real operation was a very fulfilling experience, though we did face several difficulties, such as unfavourable sea conditions, and suffered from seasickness and giddiness. Scanning the seas was not easy, as we did it for many hours in the air, with the glare from the sun reflected off the water. However, we put up with it because we knew that the mission was important to the families of those on board the missing flight.’’

Back to top