Meet Capt Shweta Singh, 1st Woman Chief Flight Operations Inspector

Captain Shweta Singh has been appointed as the first woman Chief Flight Operations Inspector (CFOI) by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), marking a momentous leap towards gender inclusivity and diversity within the aviation sector. Captain Singh is now the boss in charge of flight safety at DGCA, setting an example for women everywhere that they can reach the top, not just in aviation, but in any field.

Journey to the Top

Having successfully navigated a mandatory interview, Captain Singh emerged as the frontrunner, shattering glass ceilings in an industry traditionally dominated by men. With this achievement, she not only secures her place in history but also opens doors for future generations of aspiring aviators.

An official close to the development, spoke on condition of anonymity, reported by Hindustan Times, "Capt Singh became the first woman to hold the top post in DGCA’s flight safety department after clearing the mandatory interview. Captain Singh has now become the first woman to be in the top position in the flight safety directorate (FSD)."

The move to appoint Captain Shweta Singh as CFOI was preceded by the termination of Capt. Vivek Chhabra, the then CFOI, in January. The DGCA, citing confidential inputs and relevant provisions of the terms and conditions of his engagement, issued an order for the immediate termination of Capt. Chhabra's contract on administrative grounds and in the public interest.

Following her appointment, Captain Singh expressed her delight and gratitude on LinkedIn, sharing her commitment to representing the spirit of leadership and determination.

In her post, she acknowledged the historic significance of her achievement, breaking down barriers and paving the way for increased diversity in industry leadership roles. Captain Singh's vision extends beyond 'personal triumph', aiming to inspire aspiring aviators and foster 'inclusivity and excellence' in the Indian aviation sector.

Who Is Captain Shweta Singh ? 

Capt. Shweta Singh's journey into the world of aviation was ignited by a childhood experience that planted the seeds of her aviation passion. Growing up in an Air Force station, with her father serving as station commander, she found inspiration while seated in the cockpit of a display aircraft parked in front of her house that would later see her achieve remarkable milestones in the aviation industry. 

Her relentless pursuit of her dream led her to obtain her Pilot's license, and she soared through the ranks to become the Captain of a leading airline, specializing in Boeing 737s. 

Capt. Shweta not only previously commanded aircraft but also certifies airlines operating fleets exceeding a hundred aircraft. She also held the prestigious position of examiner of examiners and Inspector of Inspectors in DGCA, playing a pivotal role in certifying state-of-the-art Simulators catering to pilots of all categories.

Notable Achievements

Capt. Shweta Singh's list of accomplishments is as extensive as her altitude range:

1. Check Pilot, Instructor, and Examiner for Boeing 737 Jet: Professionally achieving the highest position in the realm of Boeing 737 operations showcases her expertise and leadership.

2. First Lady Deputy Chief Flight Operations Inspector in DGCA: Breaking gender norms, she holds a position of great responsibility, ensuring the smooth functioning of flight operations.

3. Recipient of the National Gaurav Award: A recognition well-deserved, highlighting her outstanding contributions to the aviation industry.

4. Instrumental Role in Regulatory Compliance: Playing a major role in preparing her team for FAA and ICAO inspections underscores her commitment to regulatory standards.

5. Leadership in Examiner Certification: Responsible for evaluating and certifying top examiners of major commercial airlines, she ensures the highest competence in the aviation workforce.

6. Simulator Evaluation Pioneer: As one of the first evaluators of simulators used for pilot training, Capt. Shweta Singh contributes to the advancement of training methodologies.

7. Active Member of Aviation Organizations: Her involvement in various organizations promoting female participation in aviation highlights her dedication to fostering diversity in the industry.

Beyond her individual accomplishments, Capt. Shweta Singh is a staunch advocate for increased female representation in challenging positions within aviation. Recognizing the need for role models, she actively encourages young women to pursue careers in the demanding field of flying.

Captain Shweta Singh's appointment reflects a positive shift towards a more inclusive aviation sector and sets a precedent for aspiring aviators, showcasing that the sky is no longer the limit for women in aviation.