Breaking barriers and charting new skies, Lieutenant Commander Divya Sharma of the Indian Navy has etched her name in history by becoming the first woman Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) of the Indian Navy. A Dornier aircraft pilot with INAS 318 at INS Utkrosh, Port Blair, Lt Cdr Divya’s achievement marks a watershed moment in the journey towards greater gender inclusion in the armed forces.
This landmark milestone reinforces the Navy’s commitment to empowering women in operational and leadership roles. As a QFI, Lt Cdr Divya Sharma is now entrusted with the critical responsibility of shaping the future of naval aviation—training and mentoring the next generation of naval aviators.
Hailing from Malviya Nagar, New Delhi, Lt Cdr Divya was among the first three women pilots operationalized on Dornier aircraft by the Southern Naval Command in 2020. A standout performer in the 27th Dornier Operational Flying Training (DOFT) Course, she was awarded ‘First in Flying’, reflecting her excellence and dedication early in her career.
Her service record includes a remarkable all-women maritime surveillance mission on International Women’s Day 2024, commemorating 40 years of INAS 318. This pathbreaking mission, operated entirely by women—including officers in meteorology, ATC, and medical support—showcased the Indian Navy’s progressive steps towards gender-neutral operations.
INAS 318, under the Andaman & Nicobar Command, plays a key role in maritime reconnaissance using Dornier aircraft. With Lt Cdr Divya’s elevation as a QFI, the squadron not only enhances its operational strength but also sets a powerful precedent for aspiring women in the Indian Armed Forces.
Lt Cdr Divya Sharma’s journey stands as a symbol of resilience, skill, and leadership—blazing a trail for countless others and reaffirming the Indian Navy’s march toward a more inclusive, dynamic, and combat-ready future.
