Avani Chaturvedi: Trailblazing India’s Fighter Pilot
Image Credit: Zee News
In June 2016, Avani Chaturvedi made history as one of India’s first female fighter pilots, alongside Bhawana Kanth and Mohana Singh. However, Chaturvedi’s achievements didn’t end there. On February 19, 2018, she became the first Indian woman to fly the MiG 21 Bison solo, further solidifying her trailblazing status.
Avani Chaturvedi hails from Madhya Pradesh and completed her schooling there. She pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Technology from Vidyapith, a university in rural Rajasthan known for its advanced programs. During her studies, she also received aviation training at the campus aviation school.
Despite initial reservations within the Indian Air Force (IAF) regarding female air force personnel, Avani Chaturvedi aspired to become a fighter pilot. With the unwavering support of her defense-oriented family, she shattered barriers and inspired countless young girls to pursue their dreams in the skies, challenging the perception that combat is solely a male domain.
Chaturvedi underwent rigorous six-month training at the Air Force Academy in Dundigal, Hyderabad, before joining the IAF fighter squadron. She continued to make significant strides in her career, becoming the first female IAF pilot to participate in wargames abroad during Veer Guardian 2023 held in Japan.
In recognition of her exceptional achievements, Avani Chaturvedi, along with Bhawana Kanth and Mohana Singh, was awarded the Nari Shakti Puraskar by President Ram Nath Kovind in 2020. These three inspiring women made history by piloting a MiG-21 Bison, showcasing their talent and determination.
Avani Chaturvedi, who flies the Su-30MKI fighter jet, has expressed her pride in operating one of the most advanced and lethal platforms armed with indigenous weapon systems. She believes that as a pilot, the aircraft treats everyone equally, regardless of gender, as it is simply a machine responding to its operator’s commands.
Re-reported from the story originally published in Zee News
