Squadron leader Saanya makes history, becomes IAF's first woman CAT-A qualified flying instructor

NEW DELHI: In another example of women breaking glass ceiling in the Indian armed forces, Squadron Leader Saanya has made history by becoming the first woman officer to achieve the top category qualified flying instructor position in the Indian Air Force.

In a post on X, the IAF said, “Excellence takes flight. Squadron Leader Saanya achieved a historic first by becoming the first woman officer to earn the coveted Cat-A Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) qualification.” Highlighting her achievement, the air force said, “Her achievement embodies dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence. A proud milestone for the IAF and an inspiration for aspiring aviators across the nation.”

The IAF uses a structured system to rank the instructional expertise of its pilots. Cat-C is for trainee or probationary instructors, Cat-B is for instructors capable of standard flying instruction and Cat-A is the pinnacle of the grading system, allowing the pilot to train other instructors and assess advanced flight skills.

Cat-A QFI plays a crucial role in shaping the next generation of fighter pilots. Trainers in such a category train young aviators, assess their progress, correct their errors, build their confidence and prepare them for the top flying skills needed for air combat. The role requires a rare combination of skill, patience, clarity, composure and deep technical knowledge. By earning this qualification, Squadron Leader Saanya has placed herself among the finest flying instructors in the IAF training system.

Public service records list Sq Ldr Saanya as an officer of the Flying branch, commissioned on June 20, 2015 from the 42 SSC (W) FP Course. She was promoted to Flight Lieutenant in 2017 and Squadron Leader in 2021.

Her achievement has come at a time when women officers in the IAF are breaking new grounds regularly: From fighter jet flying and transport operations to helicopter units, flight testing, command appointments and instructional roles, Indian women aviators have steadily expanded their presence in areas once dominated by men.