IIT Bombay, IAF Sign MoA to Launch Master’s Programme for Flight Test Crew

IIT Bombay and Indian Air Force have signed an MoA to launch Master’s programme for flight test crew. Check details here

Master’s Programme for Flight Test Crew

IIT Bombay Updates: Indian Air Force (IAF) and IIT Bombay have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to introduce a Master’s degree programme for Flight Test Crew. This will include Test Pilots and Flight Test Engineers. The agreement marks a major step towards strengthening India’s capabilities in military aviation and aerospace technology.

Under this agreement, Air Force Test Pilot School (AFTPS) at Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment (ASTE) of IAF will work with IIT Bombay. The collaboration will combine IAF’s expertise in flight testing with IIT Bombay’s academic, research and technological capabilities.

The proposed Master’s programme will provide advanced academic and technical training to flight test professionals. It is expected to help develop specialised expertise in areas critical to the testing and evaluation of military aircraft and aerospace systems.

Focus on Military Aviation and Atmanirbharta

This collaboration recognises flight testing as a key part of the growth of India’s military aviation industry. Flight testing plays an important role in evaluating aircraft, systems and technologies before they are deployed for operational use.

IAF said this initiative is aligned with government’s vision of ‘Atmanirbharta’, or self-reliance, in defence sector. By bringing together IAF and IIT Bombay, this programme aims to strengthen domestic expertise and reduce dependence on external support for critical aerospace technologies. The partnership is also expected to encourage greater interaction between academic research and real-world military aviation requirements.