India’s Aerospace Future Soars: 24th Production Test Pilots Course Concludes at Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment
Bengaluru. The 24th Production Test Pilots Course concluded on December 6 at the Air Force Test Pilots School of the Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment, Bengaluru. The ceremony was graced by Air Marshal Vijay Kumar Garg, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Maintenance Command, Indian Air Force.
Squadron Leader Ashish Bhardwaj received the Best All-Round Student Trophy for his exceptional performance throughout the course.
During the ceremony, seven officers (six from the Indian Air Force and one from the Indian Coast Guard) were awarded certificates upon successful completion of the course. These graduates will now contribute to India’s self-reliance in aerospace technology, supporting the nation’s defence and indigenous aircraft production efforts.
Senior representatives from the Indian Air Force, Defence Research and Development Organisation, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Society of Experimental Test Pilots, and Society of Flight Test Engineers also attended the ceremony, underscoring the significance of the event.
Over the years, the Air Force Test Pilots School has produced highly skilled test pilots who have made significant contributions to India’s defence aerospace and space programs, including the prestigious Gaganyaan Mission. The school has also trained officers from several friendly foreign nations, reinforcing its global reputation. To date, 46 flight test courses, 23 Production Test Pilots Courses, and 4 Remotely Piloted Aircraft Test Courses have successfully graduated.
