Meet IAF’s First Woman CAT-A Qualified Flying Instructor: Sqn Ldr Saanya

Commissioned into the Flying Branch in June 2015 as part of the 42nd Short Service Commission (Women) course, Sqn Ldr Saanya was among six women inducted as pilots in her batch. She was promoted to the rank of Squadron Leader in June 2021. In May 2025, she successfully completed the demanding qualification process to become a CAT-A QFI. According to the IAF, only 38 officers in its history have attained this distinction.

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CAT-A (Category-A) is the highest instructional category in the IAF and is awarded only after years of rigorous training, assessment, and consistent professional excellence.

The Indian Air Force follows a three-grade system for Qualified Flying Instructors to assess the instructional expertise of its pilots. Cat-C QFIs are trainees or probationary instructors. Cat-B QFIs are qualified instructors who provide standard flying instruction. Cat-A QFIs are the highest in the instructor category. They play a critical role in shaping the next generation of military aviators. Their responsibilities extend beyond pilot training to mentoring junior instructors and upholding the operational standards, safety culture, and combat readiness of the force.

Sqn Ldr Saanya’s achievement marks another important step in the growing role of women in the IAF and highlights the increasing opportunities for women to excel in operational and instructional positions within the service.

Also read: In Her Defence: Ten Landmark Judgments on Women in the Armed Forces