Indian Air Force officer Squadron Leader Saanya has become the first woman officer in the IAF to earn the prestigious Category-A Qualified Flying Instructor (Cat-A QFI) qualification — the highest instructional rating for flying instructors in the force.

The achievement is considered a major milestone for women in India’s armed forces and highlights the growing role of women aviators in operational and training leadership positions. The IAF described her accomplishment as a “proud milestone” and an inspiration for aspiring pilots across the country.

What is Cat-A QFI?

The Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) grading system in the IAF evaluates a pilot’s instructional and flying expertise.

• Category-C – Trainee instructors
• Category-B – Standard flying instructors
• Category-A – Highest level; authorised to train other instructors and assess advanced flying skills

Cat-A instructors play a crucial role in preparing future fighter and military pilots.

About Squadron Leader Saanya

• Commissioned into the Flying Branch of the IAF on 20 June 2015
• Belongs to the 42 SSC (W) FP Course
• Promoted to Flight Lieutenant in 2017 and Squadron Leader in 2021

Significance

Her achievement marks another important step in increasing women’s participation in advanced aviation and combat-support roles within the Indian military. It follows several milestones achieved by women officers in the IAF in recent years, including command appointments and fighter pilot roles.