BSF Air Wing Completes First In-House Training for Flight Engineers, Promoting Self-Reliance and Gender Inclusivity

The Border Security Force (BSF) Air Wing has reached a notable achievement by conducting its first-ever in-house ab-initio training program for Flight Engineers. This development is a significant move towards self-sufficiency in aviation training and operational capabilities for the BSF.

This training initiative, crafted and carried out by the BSF’s own instructors, was focused on cultivating skilled Flight Engineers to ensure the safe and efficient functioning of the BSF’s aircraft fleet. Participants in the program underwent extensive training on the ground and in the air, covering essential topics such as aircraft systems, emergency procedures, and mission preparedness.

After completing the course, five trainee Flight Engineers, including one female Subordinate Officer (SO), received flying brevets from the Director General (DG) of BSF during a ceremony in New Delhi. The DG commended the officers for their dedication, professionalism, and successful completion of the rigorous training.

The BSF Air Wing plays an essential role in supporting border operations, disaster relief, and logistical missions across India's extensive frontiers. Since its establishment in 1969, the Air Wing has been headquartered in New Delhi and operates a diverse range of aircraft, including the Mi-17 V5, Avro, Super King Air B-200, and ALH Dhruv helicopters.

The pilots and technical crew of the Air Wing are sourced from both the BSF and the Indian Air Force. They work jointly on tasks such as surveillance, casualty evacuation, troop transport, and border management. The Air Wing has been instrumental during national emergencies, humanitarian missions, and in supporting counter-insurgency operations in remote and high-altitude areas.

The completion of the in-house ab-initio course reflects the BSF’s increasing emphasis on self-reliance and capacity building under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The inclusion of a female SO among the trained Flight Engineers signifies BSF's commitment to empowering women and promoting gender inclusivity in specialized operational roles.

This achievement not only boosts the BSF's internal training capabilities but also enhances its capacity to independently conduct complex air operations, ensuring operational readiness and technical proficiency across diverse terrains and conditions.