The Aircrew Examining Board (AEB) of the Indian Air Force celebrated a significant milestone with the successful completion of the 23rd Combined Instrument Rating Instructor and Examiner (CIRIE) Course during a valedictory ceremony at Air Force Station Hindan on February 27, 2026.
This prestigious six-week course underscores the Indian Air Force’s unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of flying and operational safety. The ceremony was presided over by Air Marshal Tejbir Singh, AVSM, VM, Director General (Inspection & Safety), whose considerable operational experience lent additional weight to the proceedings.
Highlighting the achievements of the participants, Wing Commander Deepak Awasthi, Wing Commander Vishal Joshi, and Wing Commander Rohit Tiwari were honored for securing the top positions in order of merit among aircrew from the fighter, transport, and helicopter streams, respectively.
The structured curriculum of the CIRIE Course included four weeks of rigorous ground training followed by two weeks of practical flying experience. This educational framework aimed to ensure that officers develop a keen proficiency in evaluating instrument flying—a critical skill for navigating modern air operations, particularly in challenging weather conditions and intricate tactical scenarios.
A total of 40 officers successfully graduated from this elite program. This group included 32 from the Indian Air Force, along with two participants each from the Indian Army and Indian Navy. Additionally, four officers from allied nations—Kenya, Uganda, and Madagascar—completed the course, marking a collaborative effort in aviation training.
The diverse representation among graduates illustrates an increasing tri-service synergy, emphasizing the Indian Air Force’s expanding influence as a global hub for aviation training and standards.
