You get the best of both worlds: IAF Pilot

What’s the best thing about being an IAF pilot?
It’s an extremely challenging and responsible job. You have to learn to be on your own. In some squadrons, one has to master night flying, with all take-offs happening after sunset and landings before sunrise. An officer has to undergo several tests and eliminations before s/he is put in a flying role. Others have to settle in the allied areas.

Is life too monotonous in the Air Force for a social person?
That’s not true. You get ample time for relaxation and recreation. One has the mess where young officers play squash, tennis or go swimming. One attends parties and does almost everything that one would do in civilian life.

Are there good educational opportunities in the IAF?
There are many avenues of study. I joined as an undergraduate, but when I retired, I was a double postgraduate — in defence and strategic affairs; and political science.

What have the most striking changes in the IAF been since your time?
Earlier, only kids from the upper strata of society became Air Force pilots. Now because of new selection criteria, boys and girls from all strata take up flying as a profession. The force has become a lot more professional, too.

What are some of the vital qualities required of an Air Force pilot?
You must display a high order of team spirit and the ability to co-ordinate. At the same time, you should also learn to be independent as there might be a hundred situations when you cannot bank on anyone.