The Border Security Force (BSF) Air Wing achieved a significant milestone by successfully conducting its first-ever in-house ab-initio training program for Flight Engineers. This initiative marks a major step toward self-reliance in aviation training and operational capabilities within the BSF.
The training program, designed and executed by BSF’s own instructional staff, aimed at developing skilled Flight Engineers capable of ensuring the safe and efficient operation of BSF’s aircraft fleet. The trainees underwent rigorous ground and flying training, covering vital aspects such as aircraft systems, emergency handling, and mission readiness procedures.
Upon completion of the course, five trainee Flight Engineers, including one Mahila Subordinate Officer (SO), were ceremonially awarded flying brevets by the Director General (DG) of BSF during the valedictory function held in New Delhi. The DG congratulated the officers for their dedication, professionalism, and successful completion of this challenging training.
BSF Air Wing: Backbone of Aerial Operations
The BSF Air Wing, established in 1969, plays a vital role in providing aerial support to border operations, disaster relief, and logistic missions across India’s vast frontiers. Headquartered in New Delhi, the Air Wing operates a diverse fleet of fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters such as the Mi-17 V5, Avro, Super King Air B-200, and ALH Dhruv.
Its pilots and technical crew are drawn from both the BSF cadre and the Indian Air Force, working in coordination for surveillance, casualty evacuation, troop movement, and border management. The Air Wing’s contribution has been crucial during national emergencies, humanitarian assistance missions, and in supporting counter-insurgency operations in remote and high-altitude regions.
Step Toward Self-Reliance and Women Empowerment
The successful completion of the in-house ab-initio course underscores BSF’s growing focus on self-reliance and capacity building under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The inclusion of a Mahila SO among the trained Flight Engineers also highlights BSF’s commitment to women empowerment and gender inclusivity in specialized operational roles.
This milestone not only enhances BSF’s internal training capabilities but also strengthens its ability to sustain complex air operations independently, ensuring operational readiness and technical excellence across all terrains and conditions.
