Air Force Day 2025
History, Celebration, and Life in the Indian Air Force
Air Force Day, celebrated every year on 8 October, marks the proud legacy and achievements of the Indian Air Force (IAF) — the guardian of India’s skies. Beyond being a day of parades and flypasts, it’s a reminder of courage, discipline, and the spirit of service that defines life in the Air Force
✈️ History of Air Force Day
The Indian Air Force was officially established on 8 October 1932 under British rule as an auxiliary air arm of the Royal Air Force. The first squadron, No. 1 Squadron, was formed in April 1933 at Drigh Road (now in Karachi) with six Indian officers and four Westland Wapiti biplanes.
After Independence in 1947, the IAF played decisive roles in wars with Pakistan and China, securing India’s territorial integrity. In 1950, the prefix “Royal” was dropped, and it became the Indian Air Force, serving under the newly formed Republic of India.
Today, the IAF ranks among the top five air forces in the world, with a fleet of over 2,000 aircraft and thousands of dedicated personnel.
🎆 How Air Force Day Is Celebrated
Every year on 8 October, Air Force Day celebrations take place at the Hindon Air Force Station in Ghaziabad, near Delhi. The day begins with a ceremonial parade, followed by a spectacular air show showcasing the strength, skill, and precision of the IAF.
Recent Highlights
- Air Force Day 2021: Celebrations included displays by Rafale fighters and Apache helicopters for the first time, highlighting India’s modern defence capabilities.
- Air Force Day 2022: The parade was held in Chandigarh for the first time, to connect more closely with the public.
- Air Force Day 2023: The IAF celebrated its 91st anniversary, emphasizing the theme “Air Power Beyond Boundaries.”
- Air Force Day 2024: The event marked the near-retirement of the legendary MiG-21 jets and showcased indigenous Tejas aircraft and C-295 transport planes.
- Air Force Day 2025: Celebrations at Hindon feature a grand air show with over 100 aircraft, including Rafales, Tejas Mk-1A, and the aerobatic teams Surya Kiran and Sarang.
The celebrations not only demonstrate India’s aerial strength but also honor the bravery and sacrifice of air warriors who protect the nation.
Life in the Indian Air Force
Life in the Indian Air Force is a unique blend of duty, adventure, and honor. It’s not just a job — it’s a way of life.
A Day in the Air Force
Whether you’re flying supersonic jets, maintaining aircraft, managing air traffic, or supporting logistics, every day in the IAF brings new challenges and opportunities. Teamwork, discipline, and precision define every mission.
Perks of Air Force Life
- World-class training in leadership, technology, and operations
- Attractive pay and allowances (including flying pay, uniform allowance, housing, and medical benefits)
- Travel and adventure across India and abroad
- Respect and prestige of serving in a premier national institution
Air Force personnel also participate in humanitarian and rescue missions during natural disasters, reflecting the IAF’s motto — “Touch the Sky with Glory.”
🎯 How to Join the Indian Air Force
Joining the IAF gives you an opportunity to serve your country while living an extraordinary life. There are multiple entry routes depending on your qualification.
1. After 12th — NDA Entry
- Exam: National Defence Academy (NDA) Exam (conducted by UPSC)
- Eligibility: 10+2 with Physics & Mathematics
- Training: NDA, Khadakwasla → Air Force Academy, Dundigal
- Read More: How to Join NDA After 12th
2. After Graduation — AFCAT Entry
- Exam: AFCAT Notification
- Branches: Flying, Technical, and Ground Duty
- Eligibility: Graduation with 60% marks (Physics & Maths required for Flying Branch)
- Read More: AFCAT Exam 2025: Eligibility, Dates, and Syllabus
3. NCC Special Entry
- For NCC Air Wing ‘C’ Certificate holders
- Direct entry to the Flying Branch without a written exam
4. Through CDS Exam
- Conducted twice a year by UPSC for graduates
- Entry into the Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad
- Read More: CDS 2025 Exam: Eligibility and Selection Process
💡 Tip: Focus on physical fitness, communication, and leadership during selection
⚔️ IAF in Action: Wars and Humanitarian Missions
From defending borders to rescuing civilians in natural disasters, the IAF has always been at the forefront of national service:
- Indo-Pak Wars: 1947–48, 1965, 1971, and Kargil (1999)
- Sino-Indian War (1962)
- Operation Meghdoot (1984): Securing Siachen Glacier
- Operation Rahat (2013): Uttarakhand flood rescue
- Operation Ganga (2022): Evacuation of Indian students from Ukraine
These missions reflect the IAF’s versatility — in war, peace, and humanitarian service.
🚀 Modernization & Future Vision
The IAF continues to strengthen its fleet with indigenous innovation and advanced technology:
- HAL Tejas Mk-1A and Tejas Mk-2 under Make in India
- C-295 transport aircraft built in collaboration with Airbus
- Upgraded Rafale and Su-30MKI squadrons
- Focus on AI-powered drones and cyber defence systems
India is on track to achieve a fully self-reliant air defence ecosystem by 2035.
🕊️ Conclusion
Air Force Day 2025 is more than a celebration — it’s a salute to the men and women who keep India’s skies safe. Their courage, precision, and dedication remind us that freedom always has protectors above the clouds.
For young aspirants dreaming of flight, joining the Indian Air Force is not just a career — it’s a commitment to excellence and national pride.
“The Indian Air Force doesn’t just fly aircraft — it carries the hopes of a billion hearts.”
