Flight Lieutenant Shivangi Singh is a name that symbolizes courage, determination, and breaking barriers in the field of aviation. As the first woman pilot in India to fly the French-made Rafale fighter jet, she has become a trailblazer in the Indian Air Force (IAF), inspiring millions of young women across the globe to pursue careers in aviation and defense. Her remarkable journey from a small town in Uttar Pradesh to the cockpit of one of the most advanced fighter jets in the world reflects her unyielding commitment and passion for excellence.
Key Information
| Field | Details |
| Full Name | Flight Lieutenant Shivangi Singh |
| Date of Birth | March 15, 1995 |
| Place of Birth | Pulwariya, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Parents | Father: Kumareshwar Singh (Businessman), Mother: Seema Singh (Teacher) |
| Siblings | One younger brother |
| Education | Graduate in Geography, Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Member of 7 UP Air Squadron (NCC) |
| Military Training | Air Force Academy, Dundigal, Hyderabad (2016-2017) |
| Commissioned Into | Indian Air Force as a Flying Officer in December 2017 |
| Rank | Flight Lieutenant |
| Squadron | No. 17 Squadron, “Golden Arrows,” based in Ambala, Haryana |
| Aircraft Operated | Rafale Fighter Jet |
| Notable Achievements | First woman pilot to fly the Rafale jet, Participated in Exercise Orion (2023), Led Shakti Formation (Aero India 2025) |
| Awards and Recognition | Featured in the Republic Day Parade (2022), recognized for breaking gender barriers |
| Personal Interests | Aviation, inspiring young women, exploring space exploration, fitness, travel |
| Key Milestone | First Indian woman to operate the Rafale fighter jet |
| Future Aspirations | Aspires to contribute to India’s manned space missions |
| Role Models | Kalpana Chawla (the first woman of Indian origin in space), Other trailblazing women in aviation |
| Hobbies | Reading about aviation and military history, traveling to explore new cultures |
| Languages Known | Hindi, English |
| Social Media Presence | Active on social media, frequently shares insights about aviation and women in defense |
| Leadership Roles | Led multiple missions, including high-profile national and international exercises |
Early Life and Education
Born on March 15, 1995, in Pulwariya, a small village in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, Shivangi hails from a middle-class family. Her father, Kumareshwar Singh, runs a travel business, and her mother, Seema Singh, is a schoolteacher. Raised in an environment where hard work and education were highly valued, Shivangi’s early life was grounded in simplicity and discipline. Her inspiration to pursue aviation came at the age of nine, when she watched a politician arrive at a local event via helicopter. That moment sparked a fascination with flying, and from then on, she dreamed of donning a pilot’s uniform.
Shivangi Singh completed her schooling in Varanasi and went on to pursue a degree in Geography at Banaras Hindu University (BHU). During her time at university, she also joined the 7 UP Air Squadron of the National Cadet Corps (NCC), where she developed a deeper understanding of aviation and defense-related activities.
The Road to the Indian Air Force
In 2016, Shivangi Singh set her sights on becoming an officer in the Indian Air Force. She applied for the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) and joined the prestigious Air Force Academy in Dundigal, Hyderabad. It was here that she underwent rigorous training, both physically and mentally, to prepare for the demanding role of a fighter pilot. Her exceptional skills and determination earned her a place among the IAF’s first female fighter pilots, and she was commissioned as a Flying Officer in December 2017.
Making History: The First Woman Rafale Pilot
Shivangi’s defining moment came in 2020 when she became the first woman pilot in India to fly the Rafale fighter jet. The Rafale, a cutting-edge multirole fighter aircraft known for its speed, agility, and advanced technology, was a significant step in the modernization of the IAF. To operate this sophisticated aircraft, Shivangi underwent extensive conversion training, which included mastering advanced aviation techniques and flying in various weather conditions.
In September 2020, Shivangi Singh joined the No. 17 Squadron of the IAF, also known as the “Golden Arrows,” based in Ambala, Haryana. This squadron is equipped with Rafale fighter jets, and Shivangi’s inclusion in this elite team marked a historic moment for women in the Indian military. Her role as the only female pilot in both the Ambala and Hashimara Rafale squadrons further emphasized her pioneering achievements.
Breaking Barriers on the Global Stage
Shivangi’s rise to prominence in the IAF extended beyond Indian borders. She made history by participating in the multinational exercise “Orion” in France in 2023, making her the first Indian woman to take part in this prestigious military drill. Her participation not only showcased her expertise but also highlighted India’s growing prominence in the global defense arena. Shivangi’s presence at such a high-profile event reinforced her status as one of the IAF’s top pilots.
Notable Achievements
- Multinational Exercise Orion (2023): Shivangi participated in this exercise in France, marking her as the first Indian woman to take part in this prestigious multinational military drill.
- Aero India 2025: She led the Shakti Formation at the inaugural ceremony of Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru, showcasing the Rafale alongside Sukhoi fighter jets.
- Republic Day Parade (2022): Shivangi was featured in the IAF tableau during the Republic Day Parade, representing the Air Force’s strength and diversity.
Future Aspirations
Despite her many accomplishments, Shivangi remains driven by an insatiable thirst for growth. Her aspirations extend beyond the cockpit, and she has expressed interest in joining India’s manned space missions. She aims to contribute to India’s ambitious space exploration programs, further enhancing the country’s technological capabilities on the global stage.
Legacy and Inspiration
Shivangi Singh’s story is one of perseverance, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of a dream. She has not only made her mark in the IAF but has also become a beacon of hope for aspiring female pilots around the world. Through her grit and determination, she has shattered stereotypes and shown that women can excel in fields that are often seen as being exclusive to men.
Her journey continues to inspire young girls to dream big, aim high, and break boundaries, reinforcing the idea that with dedication and hard work, anything is possible. Shivangi Singh is not just a pilot; she is a trailblazer whose legacy will inspire generations to come.
Interesting facts about Flight Lieutenant Shivangi Singh, India’s first woman Rafale pilot:
- Pioneer of Women’s Aviation in India: Shivangi made history by becoming the first woman to fly the French-made Rafale fighter jet in the Indian Air Force, a groundbreaking achievement that broke gender barriers in military aviation.
- Aviation Passion from Childhood: Shivangi’s fascination with aviation started at a young age. At just 9 years old, she was inspired by witnessing a helicopter landing at a village event. That moment sparked her dream of becoming a pilot, and she worked relentlessly to turn that dream into reality.
- First Female Pilot in Rafale Squadrons: As of 2020, Shivangi became the only woman pilot in both the Ambala and Hashimara Rafale squadrons, symbolizing her trailblazing role in the Indian Air Force.
- Multinational Exercise Participation: In 2023, Shivangi participated in the multinational military exercise “Orion” in France, making her the first Indian woman to take part in this prestigious event. This was a testament to her skills and international recognition.
- Leadership Role in Aero India 2025: Shivangi led the Shakti Formation during the opening ceremony of Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru, where Rafale jets were showcased alongside other Indian Air Force aircraft, further solidifying her leadership in the Air Force.
- Republic Day Parade Representation: In 2022, she was featured in the IAF tableau during the Republic Day Parade, highlighting her significant contribution to the Indian Air Force and serving as an inspiration to women across the country.
- Groundbreaking Career in a Male-Dominated Field: Shivangi’s journey to becoming a fighter pilot in a traditionally male-dominated field serves as an inspiration to countless young women, showing them that gender is no barrier to success in aviation or defense.
- Aspirations Beyond the Skies: Shivangi has expressed an interest in space exploration and aspires to contribute to India’s manned space missions, showcasing her ambition to continue breaking new frontiers in both aviation and space.
- Highly Disciplined and Fitness-Focused: As a pilot, maintaining peak physical fitness is essential. Shivangi prioritizes her fitness regimen and follows a disciplined lifestyle to handle the demanding responsibilities of being a fighter pilot.
- Role Model for Young Women: Shivangi has become a role model for many young girls, especially those interested in aviation and defense. Her achievements demonstrate that women can excel in fields traditionally dominated by men, and she continues to mentor and inspire the next generation of female pilots.
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