New Delhi, Oct 9: Breaking another glass ceiling, Indian Air Force Chief Arup Raha said Thursday women would soon be inducted as fighter pilots, making the IAF the first of three services to have women in a combat role.
“We have women pilots flying transport aircraft and helicopters, we are now planning to induct them into the fighter stream to meet the aspirations of young women of India,” Raha said at the 83rd Air Force Day parade at Hindon airbase on the outskirts of the national capital.
The air force chief said it will take at least one year to start the process, and around three years before women would be flying fighters.
“The Air Force has the largest number of women in the three services. We have more than 1,300 women officers,” said the Air Chief Marshal, adding: “The Air Force has a different environment. We operate from bases, so women can have good opportunity to fly fighters.” Interestingly, May 12, 2014, ACM Raha had said women were not suited for flying fighters.
“As far as flying fighter planes is concerned, it’s a very challenging job. Women are not physically suited for flying fighters for long hours, especially when they are pregnant or have other health problems,” he had said earlier.
“We want it to happen as soon as possible. We are talking with the defence ministry and presently the case is with the ministry. I am sure it will be approved,” he said. Neighbour Pakistan already has at least five woman fighter pilots.
The US, Russian and Turkish air forces, among others permit women in combat roles. IANS
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