Shaliza Dhami has recently achieved a unique feat by becoming the first woman officer in India to be promoted to the post of Flight Commander of a flying unit.
For the uninitiated, Flight Commander is the second in the line of command of the unit.
Dhami will take over as the Flight Commander of a Chetak helicopter unit at Hindon air base, which is located in Ghaziabad. Chetak, which is a single engine turbo shaft, can accommodate six passengers and achieve a maximum speed of 220 km/hr.
“The helicopter is suitable for commuting, cargo/material transport, casualty evacuation, Search and Rescue (SAR), Aerial Survey and Patrolling, Emergency Medical Services, Off-shore operations and Under slung operations,” as per Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
Shaliza Dhami’s promotion in the flying branch will help other women take inspiration and come forward.
It must be noted that in July 2018, IAF had decided to induct women fighter pilots.
