The Air Force Academy (AFA) in Dundigal, Hyderabad, is set to celebrate the Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) of its 213 Officers’ Course on June 15, 2024. This significant event marks the culmination of rigorous pre-commissioning training for the flight cadets of both the Flying and Ground Duty branches of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The parade will be graced by the presence of Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), who will serve as the Reviewing Officer. During the ceremony, Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari will confer the President’s Commission on the graduating cadets. The ceremony will also feature the presentation of ‘Wings’ to the flight cadets, including those from the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, and officers from friendly foreign nations who have successfully completed their flying training.
Highlighting the significance of this day, the Flight Cadet from the Flying Branch who tops the order of merit will be honored with the Chief of the Air Staff ‘Sword of Honour’ and the President’s Plaque for outstanding performance throughout the training. This cadet will also have the prestigious role of commanding the parade. Additionally, the top-ranking trainee among the Ground Duty branches will be awarded the President’s Plaque.
The graduation will be celebrated with a spectacular fly past and aerobatic displays by various aircraft including Pilatus PC-7 Mk-II, Dornier, Hawk, Kiran, and Chetak. Audiences will also be treated to performances by the SU-30 MKI, the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT), and the Sarang Helicopter Display Team, adding to the grandeur of the event.
The Air Force Academy, known as the premier training establishment for the IAF, was founded on October 11, 1967, by then President Dr. Zakir Hussain. It has since been pivotal in training pilots, ground duty, and technical officers, promoting a spirit of camaraderie and healthy interaction among officers from all branches of the military.
This year’s CGP promises to be a memorable display of military discipline, skill, and the air prowess of the Indian Air Force, celebrating the transition of these cadets into future defenders of the skies.
