Who is Squadron Leader Saanya, IAF’s first woman Cat A flying instructor?

Squadron Leader Saanya has created history by becoming the first woman officer in the Indian Air Force (IAF) to earn the prestigious Cat A Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) qualification, the highest instructional rating awarded to a pilot in the force.

The IAF announced the achievement on Monday, calling it a landmark moment in its 93-year history.

"Excellence takes flight. Sqn Ldr Saanya achieved a historic first by becoming the first woman officer to earn the coveted Cat-A Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) qualification. 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 wrote on X.

A major milestone for the IAF

Saanya, identified by the IAF only by her first name, is an accomplished transport pilot who was commissioned into the force around a decade ago.

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Officials aware of the matter said that as a Cat A QFI, she is now qualified to train rookie pilots, regular pilots and even other instructors. The Cat A category is considered the highest instructional rating a Qualified Flying Instructor can attain in the Indian Air Force.

Her achievement is being seen as a significant moment for women officers in military aviation, especially in training and leadership roles traditionally dominated by men.

Growing role of women in the armed forces

The development comes seven months after Squadron Leader Shivangi Singh became India’s first woman fighter pilot to receive the QFI badge after completing a demanding six-month course at the Flying Instructors’ School in Tambaram, Tamil Nadu.

Before that, women transport and helicopter pilots had already earned the QFI badge in the IAF.

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Over the years, the Indian armed forces have steadily expanded opportunities for women. Since women began joining the military as short-service commissioned officers in the early 1990s, their presence has grown across the Army, Navy and Air Force.

Women officers are now flying fighter aircraft, serving on warships, commanding front-line units, receiving permanent commissions and training at the National Defence Academy. However, combat roles in infantry units and tank regiments in the Indian Army remain restricted for women.