Its a ‘Water Salute’ For Air-Planes – what so special?

We have often seen ‘Air-crafts’ when arrived at an Airport gets a ‘Water Salute.’

Sometimes, people wonder why? Not all of them receive such, but selected ones and occasionally.

A water salute is a ceremonial gesture where aircraft are honored by being driven through arcs of water sprayed by airport fire-fighting vehicles as the plane arrives on the airport.

Even though not all get such treatment, there are special moments such an honor is bestowed upon.

What are such moments.

Pilot ending a long service, an air traffic controllers last shift, first or last flight of an airline, last journey of an aircraft are some of those special moments.

Arrival of a sports team returning from a championship victory, or welcoming a special guest are some of the other moments.

How it is done

Two (or more) fire-vehicles line up on either side of the taxiway or apron and spray coordinated plumes of water that form an arch(s) through which the aircraft passes.

Beginning of the tradition

The tradition likely emerged from firefighting vehicles on the tarmac being used to honour significant aviation milestones.

The visual effect is similar to ceremonial arches such as military weddings.

Air-crafts carrying teams for special operations such as ‘Rescue missions’ is also honored with a water salute.

First started in the maritime sphere, later airports and airlines adopted this as a mark of respect, celebration or recognition.

Long-serving pilots receive this honor, after completing a distinguished career.

The Purpose and the meaning

Recognition / Celebration: It says “this is a special flight” or “we honor this event/person”.

Visual spectacle / marking event: It gives visual evidence that something noteworthy is happening (a final flight, a new route, a retirement).

Symbolic honour: Much like a guard of honour, the water salute shows respect.

Photo-op / publicity: For airlines, airports and media, the water arches provide a photo-worthy moment.

The story of ‘Water Salutes’ has commenced in the 19th Century, and the tradition continues.