Wings of Change: Capt. Poonam Devrakhyani’s Trailblazing Journey in Aviation

Delhi, India, November 28, 2024: The aviation industry continues to witness remarkable transformations, with women leaders playing pivotal roles in shaping its future. Captain Poonam Devrakhyani is a quintessential example of excellence, innovation, and leadership in this dynamic sector. Recently honoured at the 3rd edition of the iconic ‘Giving Wings to Dreams’ awards ceremony at Roseate House in New Delhi, Capt. Devrakhyani emerges as the epitome of professional achievement and inspiring leadership in aviation. 

Capt. Poonam was felicitated by dignitaries like Shri Vumlunmang Vualnam, Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation, Smt. Usha Padhee, IAS, Principal Secretary of Commerce and Transport Department (Government of Odisha), and Mr. Vipin Kumar, IAS, Chairman AAI.

With an illustrious career spanning over 8,000 flying hours and encompassing multiple roles, Capt. Devrakhyani has distinguished herself as a Flight Operations Inspector with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Her professional journey is marked by exceptional academic credentials, including a bachelor’s degree in aviation, a law degree in aviation law, an MBA in Aerospace and Aviation from Toulouse Business School, and a general management programme from IIM Bangalore.

Her recent recognition highlights her groundbreaking work in integrating artificial intelligence and data analytics to enhance aviation safety and operational efficiency. By pioneering innovative approaches to regulatory oversight, particularly in Tamil Nadu, she has established new benchmarks in safety protocols and regulatory practices. Her contributions extend beyond technical excellence, embodying a sustainable and ethical technological advancement vision.

The award ceremony, organised by Women in Aviation India in collaboration with the Ministry of Civil Aviation, celebrated 37 exceptional women who have made significant contributions to the aviation sector. This recognition reflects the growing opportunities for women in an industry traditionally dominated by male professionals. The event, graced by the Secretary of Civil Aviation, emphasised the importance of inclusivity and innovation in aviation.

Capt. Devrakhyani’s remarkable achievements include previous accolades such as the INSC Young Women Aviation Leader Award and the Tamil Nadu Business Excellency Award. Her message to aspiring aviators resonates with hope and inspiration, encouraging the next generation to embrace technological innovation while maintaining ethical responsibility and a commitment to environmental stewardship.

Her multifaceted career, spanning airlines like Jet Airways and AirAsia and involving various aircraft types, including Boeing 737 and Airbus 320, demonstrates the diverse opportunities available to women in aviation. Dubbed the “Golden Girl in Aviation,” Capt. Devrakhyani continues to break barriers and inspire future generations of women to pursue ambitious careers in this exciting and evolving field.

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Captain Poonam Devrakhyani

aviation industry

women achievements

Golden Girl

Ministry of Civil Aviation