Squadron Leader Saanya Becomes IAF’s First Woman Cat-A Instructor

Squadron Leader Saanya became the Indian Air Force’s first woman officer to qualify as a Cat-A Qualified Flying Instructor on 18 May 2026. The Cat-A QFI qualification is one of the highest instructor categories in the Indian Air Force and is linked with advanced flying training and operational standards.

Qualified Flying Instructor in the Indian Air Force

A Qualified Flying Instructor, or QFI, is an officer trained to instruct pilots in flying operations. Cat-A QFIs handle advanced pilot training, assess junior instructors, and maintain safety and operational procedures in flying units.

Service Profile of Squadron Leader Saanya

Squadron Leader Saanya was commissioned into the Indian Air Force on 20 June 2015 through the 42 SSC (W) FP Course. She was promoted to Flight Lieutenant in 2017 and to Squadron Leader in 2021.

Women in Indian Military Aviation

Women officers serve in several branches of the Indian Air Force, including flying, logistics, administration, and technical roles. The Indian armed forces have inducted women into combat-support and training appointments across multiple services.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Indian Air Force was founded on 8 October 1932.
• The rank of Squadron Leader is used in the Indian Air Force and is equivalent to a Major in the Indian Army.
• Qualified Flying Instructor is a professional qualification for pilots who train other pilots.
• Air Chief Marshal A P Singh is the Chief of the Air Staff of the Indian Air Force.

IAF Recognition

Air Chief Marshal A P Singh felicitated Squadron Leader Saanya for the qualification. The Indian Air Force announced the achievement on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.