Sqn Ldr Saanya becomes first woman officer to earn Cat-A QFI qualification

• The Indian Air Force said Squadron Leader Saanya became the first woman officer to earn the coveted Cat-A Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) qualification.

• Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh felicitated the officer for the achievement.

• Sqn Ldr Saanya was commissioned into the Flying Branch on June 20, 2015, from the 42 SSC (W) FP Course.

• She was promoted to Flight Lieutenant in 2017 and Squadron Leader in June 2021.

• The IAF instructors are ranked by the Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) grading system, which evaluates flying skill and instructional ability.

• Category-C: Trainee or probationary instructors.

• Category-B: Instructors qualified to provide standard flying training.

• Category-A: They are authorised to train other instructors and assess advanced flight skills.

• Cat-A instructors play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of fighter pilots.