NEW DELHI: Squadron leader Saanya Monday became 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,” said the Indian Air Force (IAF).
A coveted Cat-A Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) is among the highest-rated and most experienced flying instructors in the Indian Air Force (IAF). A QFI is a pilot specially trained to teach and mentor other pilots, while the “Cat-A” grading represents the top instructor category awarded only to highly skilled and accomplished aviators. Such instructors are entrusted with advanced pilot training, evaluation of junior instructors and maintaining strict operational and safety standards. The qualification is considered prestigious because it is difficult to achieve and is held by only a select group of pilots.