Air Marshal Tejbir Singh, Senior Air Staff Officer at Headquarters Training Command, Indian Air Force (IAF), graced the valedictory function of the 158th Qualified Flying Instructors Course (QFIC) held at the Flying Instructors School (FIS), Air Force Station Tambaram, on April 25, 2025. The ceremony marked the successful completion of the rigorous training program for officers from the Indian Air Force, Army, Navy, and friendly foreign nations.
The event, held at the Tambaram Air Force Station, a historic airfield with roots dating back to its days as RAF Station Tambaram during British rule, showcased the IAF’s commitment to excellence in aviation training. Air Marshal Tejbir Singh, who assumed his role as Senior Air Staff Officer in September 2024, presented awards and certificates to the graduating officers. A decorated officer with over 7,000 flying hours, he is known for his pivotal role in inducting the C-130J ‘Super Hercules’ aircraft into the IAF and establishing the first Special Ops Squadron. His distinguished service has earned him the Vayu Sena Medal in 2010 and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 2018.
During the ceremony, Group Captain KP Singh, Commanding Officer of FIS, briefed the attendees on the achievements of the course, highlighting the dedication and skill of the graduates. The backdrop featured emblems of the IAF and the number “158,” signifying the course’s legacy, while trophies and awards were prominently displayed, symbolizing the high standards of the training program.
The Flying Instructors School at Tambaram has a storied history of training pilots not only from the Indian Armed Forces but also from over 17 countries, including the USA, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Nigeria, Kenya, and Botswana. Established in 1948 at Ambala before moving to Tambaram, FIS has been instrumental in shaping skilled flying instructors who train ab-initio and operational pilots. The school currently operates a fleet that includes 15 Pilatus PC-7 Mk II basic trainers, alongside Kiran Mk I and Mk II aircraft, and HAL Cheetah and Chetak helicopters.
This valedictory function follows the tradition of excellence set by previous courses, such as the 157th QFIC in October 2024, and underscores India’s growing role in fostering military aviation expertise, both domestically and internationally. The event also highlighted the strong camaraderie and collaboration between the IAF, sister services, and foreign partners, reinforcing military ties through shared training initiatives.
