Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Career in Pakistan Air Force as Cadets











Quality is the hallmark of Pakistan Air Force. In order to maintain its traditions of professional excellence, the PAF is quite selective in choosing suitable young men & women to fly, maintain and support its sophisticated aircraft and equipment. Those who are selected and successfully complete PAF's exhaustive and strenuous training, can look forward to a rewarding, noble & honourable career. PAF offers a wide variety of this carcass to the citizens of Pakistan.
Life in the PAF is undoubtedly disciplined and demanding but then there are many incentives like handsome salary, accommodation, free medical facilities for self and family, generous leave and Air/Rail passage at concessional rates. Moreover, the Air Force environment is dynamic because one is always in the company of cheerful, energetic and dedicated colleagues ready to do their best for each other. This privilege can only be appreciated by those who serve in the clutch force.
Pakistan Air Force is comparatively a young service. It was established in 1947 with only a handful of personnel and with scant resources. The PAF has undergone many evolutionary changes in the short span of its history. It matured rapidly and its pilots have successfully contested numerically superior enemies in the air both in the subcontinent and elsewhere. Today, it stands as one of the most well organized and well maintained forces in the region. Its command and administrative structures have been refashioned from time to time to keep pace with its expansion and modernization programmes.
Selection Criteria
The word "PAF", (Pakistan Air Force) now a days, requires no elaboration. It has become a legendary phenomenon due to its glorious history. It is renowned for its good name not only within the country but also outside. The aviators of the PAF have carved out history for themselves in the past and are exerting hard to maintain the standards set by the fore-runners, rather augmenting them in excellence in futurity. We hope this will give you some idea of the Pakistan Air Force, its selection system and subsequent training. The first thing to be said is that our standards are high, and we insist to apply them. We make no apology for that. We are in the business of selecting the next generation of officers for a service conversant with the latest technology, ready to defend our motherland in the event of conflict. Those who are selected for the task would be given an expanded and extensive training, leading to a very challenging and demanding job. They are likely to be responsible not only for millions of rupees, worth sophisticated equipment’s, but also for the security of the country and the well being of their countrymen. Wrong selection, on our part would be very costly and may prove fatal to the interest of the nation. Hence we cannot take chance for such a grave lapse. Despite this, it is not a part of our policy to discourage or to make you nervous or catch you with tricky questions. The tests and interviews at PAF I&S Centers/ Inter Services Selection Board (ISSB) are carried out in a relaxed and informal way. Above all we need to know you as a person. To achieve this objective, we do encourage you to feel at home and think and act naturally. We are confident that you will enjoy the time you spend with us if you come in the right spirit. Whether or not you are successful, you should learn something about today’s PAF and the people in it, and above all about yourself.
PAF Academy Risalpur
The selected candidates proceed to the PAF Academy Risalpur to fulfill their cherished dream of becoming the future Fighter Pilots, Aeronautical Engineers and other ground specialities. The PAF Academy is located at Risalpur which is a small town in the North West Frontier Province of Pakistan. It is situated at about 8 KM from Nowshera, across the green bank of Kabul River, on the main road to the beautiful valley of Swat. The legendary Khyber Pass, the gate-way to Central Asian Republics, lies to the north at a distance of about 90 KM. PAF Academy comprises two premier institutions of the PAF, the College of Flying Training (CFT) and the College of Aeronautical Engineering (CAE). Both these institutions are well equipped with modern workshops, laboratories, library, class rooms and other academic facilities to classify them as distinctive institutions. The vast parade ground, immaculate Cadets’ mess and living-in accommodation present a spectacle to behold. These institutions have bred generations of Fighter Pilots and Aeronautical Engineers for the PAF and other friendly countries.
College of Flying Training (CFT)
In CFT, Aviation Cadets go through flying/academic training for 3 years. Over the years, the College has developed a modern, scientific and systematic program of pilot training. It aims at equipping the Aviation Cadets with basic flying skills along with sound academic/professional background which eventually leads to the award of BSc degree. The College has two types of trainer aircraft namely MFI-17 Mushshak, which is being produced under licence in Pakistan and T-37, which is jet trainer of American origin. Recently, another jet trainer K-8, a joint venture of Pakistan and China has been added to the training fleet of the Academy. The training on these aircraft is designed to produce pilots for Pakistan Air Force and friendly countries. Aviation Cadets who successfully complete their flying training on MFI-17 and T-37 are awarded flying wings. The College is also entrusted to conduct regular courses of Administration and Special duties, Meteorology, Accounts, Information Technology, Education, Legal and Branch List Permanent Commission. Additionally, the College imparts flying training to the officers of the sister services.
College of Aeronautical Engineering (CAE)
The College of Aeronautical Engineering came into being after independence when an acute shortage of technical maintenance officers was felt in the PAF. In order to meet the immediate requirements of the engineering officers, a plan to establish an Aeronautical Engineering College was mooted and speedily implemented. The College was initially established at Korangi Creek, Karachi in 1965. In 1986, the College was shifted from Korangi Creek to PAF Academy, Risalpur. The Aviation Cadets of Engineering Branch go through 3½ years training in the College of Aeronautical Engineering after which they get their BE degree in Aerospace or Avionics disciplines. At CAE the Aviation Cadets go through a system of education on the lines of United States Air Force Institute of Technology. The College is known not only for its excellent academic training but also for its well-designed leadership training programs. Its graduates today lead most of the aerospace related departments of PAF, Pak Army, PIA and other civilian sectors.
Cadets WingThe most distinguishing feature of a fighting force is its personnel high standard of physical fitness, discipline and leadership qualities. To achieve this objective, PAF strives not only to impart professional/academic knowledge but also to inculcate these qualities in its future commanders. At the PAF Academy Risalpur, the Cadets’ Wing is entrusted with the most important task of developing personal qualities like integrity, courage, determination, initiative and patriotism of officers through elaborate program of character building. Here, the command and leadership qualities of cadets are brought into sharp focus and assessed individually. Debates, drama and public speaking are encouraged. Para jumping, skiing, techniques of jungle, desert, sea and snow survival are also added to the list of activities cadets look forward to. The subjects in the purview of the Cadets Wing are: -
Air Operations
Use of Small Arms
Field Craft (Camping-Visits etc.) Leadership
Character Building
Physical Exercises Military Drill
Sports Activities
The Cadets’ Mess
Cadets’ Mess is the living accommodation of all the cadets of PAF Academy. It is a grand complex, which is designed to provide facilities of messing, accommodation, recreation and social activities. When a cadet reports at the College ,he is provided a accommodation which he shares with his course mates. As he progresses and becomes senior, he moves to a twin bedded/independent room where he stays for the remaining period of this training. All possible measures are taken to provide a balanced diet to the cadets so that they maintain good health during their training period. The affairs of the cadets mess are centrally managed and controlled by the officers of the Cadets wing.
Extra Curricular Activities and SportsThe cadets are provided with adequate facilities to pursue games and sports of their choice. Fields and courts for the following games are available.
Hockey
Football
Basketball
Tennis
Squash
Athletics
Riding
Golf
Fencing
Officers and trained instructors supervise the cadets, sports activities. Bi-annual Inter Squadron competitions are held in different games. Cadets show great zeal and fervor to win trophies for the prestige of their respective squadrons. The squadron excelling in games and sports is awarded the championship trophy. An Academic Trophy is also awarded to the squadron achieving best academic results. All such activities are aimed to engender healthy competition and instill aspirit de corps among squadron members.
Besides outdoor games, a number of facilities and clubs for indoor activities like Body Building, Table Tennis, Billiards, Chess, Drama are also available in the Mess. Additionally, the Academy also provides ample opportunities to inculcate and develop the personal hobbies of cadets. A well equipped Hobbies' Club ‘ is housed in an independent building and provides facilities of painting, aero modelling, Photography, electronic model designing, wood works and music.Literary Activities
After Dinner Literary Activity (ADLA) is a regular feature of cadets training. Its aims are developing the art of public speaking in the cadets. Apart from ADLA sessions, debates, declamation contests and other similar literary activities are also regularly held to develop and broaden the intellectual horizon of the cadets. To increase their general awareness, guest speakers are invited to speak on their subjects of specialization.
Educational Visits
Educational visits to industrial enterprises, technical and civil organizations are regularly scheduled the curriculum of CFT / CAE. The purpose of these visits is to familiarize the aviation cadets with scientific and engineering techniques and to apprise them of the kind of technical work being done in Pakistan.
Student Counseling
A tutor is appointed from the Faculty for each Aviation Cadet of College of Flying Training (CFT) / College of Aeronautical Engineering (CAE). He is the local guardian and academic counselor of the cadet. He meets the cadet frequently to discuss his academic performance as well as help to solve his personal difficulties and problems.

Training in Pakistan Air Force

As an Officers ..

With an aspiration to achieve excellence, Pakistan Air Force (PAF) selects young men and women with budding credentials. From a pilot officer to the higher echelons, immensely consequential responsibilities are entrusted to the individuals. This task is accomplished through a thorough system of training, which caters for specialized knowledge about the world, military tactics, and material sciences. The training imparted to the PAF personnel from day one and onwards, throughout their career progression, is most precisely carved and tailored to make them a whole person.The overall training system of the Pakistan Air Force can be divided into two mainstreams i.e., training of officers and training of airmen. Over the years, the training system in the PAF has evolved into a smooth and streamlined procedure, which aims to train the selected ones for air operations and ground support. Presently, large number of training institutions are functioning under the Training Branch. The standard of training maintained in the PAF is recognized all over the world. It is this trustworthy repute that today the Pakistan Air Force has the credit of providing initial and specialized training to the personnel of over thirty allied countries including:
Bangladesh
Brunei
China
Indonesia
Iran
Jordan
Malaysia
Nepal
Nigeria
Qatar
Saudi Arabia
Sri Lanka
Sudan
Syria
Turkey
Turkmenistan
UAE


Innumerable opportunities await officers to further their Education after initial training at the PAF Academy. Professional courses pertaining to flying, engineering, air defence and miscellaneous types are offered to the officers during their career. Similarly, career courses are designed for a steady progress to the higher ranks such as the Basic Staff Course and Junior Command & Staff course for junior officers, Senior Command and Staff Course for mid career officers and Air War Course for the senior officers.
To equip its personnel with appropriate knowledge and skills, the Training Branch of the PAF ensures that the responsibility of preparing the Air Warriors of Pakistan is entrusted to highly qualified, experienced and devoted instructors. Thus the overall conducive environment of learning, modern teaching equipment and sound teaching methodology at the PAF training institutions, makes the PAF an elite force, whose personnel have vowed to defend the aerial frontiers of Pakistan. There is no doubt that PAF has produced and is still producing men with an extraordinary precision, whose vision is vast enough to encompass the slightest stir of its enemy.
Training Institutes
Air War College
College of Flying Training (CFT)
College of Aeronautical Engineering (CAE)
Flying Instructors School (FIS)
Transport Conversion School (TCS)
Helicopter Flying School (HFS)
Air Defence Training School (ADTS)
Air Defence System School (ADSS)
Institute of Air Safety (IAS)
Aero-Medical Institute (AMI)

Information & selection



Rawalpindi
3, The Mall, opposite AFIC, RawalpindiTel: 92 - 51 - 5701143


Lahore

14, Munir Road, Munir Chowk,(Near PAF Cinema), LahoreTel: 92 - 42 - 9220084


Faisalabad

Main Jhang Road, 64 Pully Stop, Near Air Port Chowk, FaisalabadTel: 92 - 41 - 2577077


Multan
217, Sheer Shah Road, MultanTel: 92 - 61 - 9201183


DI Khan

Fazal Shaheen Road, DI KhanTel: 92 - 966 - 9280311


Abbotabad
310, Mansehra Road, Near Ayub Medical Complex, Abbotabad.Tel: 92 - 992 - 385157

Karachi
Main Shahra-e-Faisal, Near PAF Base, Faisal, Karachi.Tel: 92 - 21 - 9240999


Bhawalpur

10 A Extention Scheme, Satelite Town, Bhawalpur. Tel: 92 - 621 - 9250103


Peshawar

9, The Mall, PeshawarTel: 92 - 91 - 9210829

Hyderabad

49, Salahudin Road, HyderabadTel: 92 - 22 - 9200936

Quetta

MA, Jinnah Road, QuettaTel: 92 - 81 - 9201753

Sukkur

Minara Road, Opposite Gov. Islamia College,Sukkur.Tel: 92 - 71 - 9310409

Career in Pakistan Air Force as CiVilian

Like uniformed personnel, civilians also play a vital role in the Pakistan Air Force (PAF). They are working side by side with the uniformed personnel.
There are two types of civilians working in the PAF. Those working in Air HQs are called higher formation civilians and others in Bases/Units are called lower formation civilians. The primary roles of civilians in the PAF are as under:
To provide skill not available with personnel in uniform
To provide continuity in the smooth functioning of operations / administration in PAF
To help uniform personnel to concentrate on primary military duties
Various PAF Civilian Cadres and their Selection Criteria / Schedule:
These are 128 different Cadres of Civilians in the PAF starting from BPS-1 to BPS-19. There are following groups in Civilian Cadres as:
Civilian Gazetted Officers
Ministerial Staff
Technical Staff
Storekeeping Staff
Driving Staff
Cooking Staff
Drawing Staff
Medical Staff
Miscellaneous Staff
Class-IV Staff
Proper induction of civilians and effective manning of the PAF establishment has paramount importance. It contributes to achieve optimum utilization of civilian manpower by keeping the right man on the right job. This could only be done by selecting qualified persons in each cadre, for which different recruitment rules have been framed by the PAF with the approval of Govt of Pakistan. Briefly following conditions are kept in view while inducting civilians in the PAF:
Availability of Vacancy: There should be a vacant post available. Age Limit: The age of a candidate should not be less than 18 years at the time of enrolment. Generally, the maximum age is 25 years for most of the trades except Technical and Driving/Class-IV Staff for which it is 28 years and 30 years respectively. For retired personnel of the Armed Forces of Pakistan the upper age Limit is relaxable up to maximum 15 years. Relaxation of 3 years is also admissible for candidates belong to FATA/FANA, backward areas of Sindh & Baluchistan and to the scheduled castes. Moreover, presently a general relaxation up to 5 years has also been allowed by the Government. Educational Qualification: Different academic/professional qualification has been laid down for each cadre. Candidates seeking employment in any cadre mentioned above must fulfil the minimum academic/professional qualifications. Medical Fitness: A candidate selected as civilian in PAF must be medically fit. However, there is an exception for disabled persons for which 2% quota has been reserved. Provincial/Regional Quota: Under the provision of constitution of Pakistan, the regional/provincial quota fixed by the Govt, is observed at the time of inducting civilians in PAF. Security Clearance: All candidates employed in the PAF are to be security cleared through relevant civil agencies.

Join PAF as Airman

This is an era of revolutions in the scientific world. The war has advanced from one-to-one fighting to nuclear and inter continental missile system and remote control weapons, with minimum reaction time.As Pakistan has strengthened its Army and Navy; it has also provided its Air force with latest aircraft like A-5, F-7, Mirage, F-16 and JF-17. Moreover continuous efforts are being made for the procurement of the latest aircraft. The aim is not only to make use of the latest military technology but to formulate an effective war strategy. The objective is also to train technical manpower, which is capable enough to exploit full potential of the available technology.
Quality is the hallmark of Pakistan Air Force. The selection system of PAF is designed to be lengthy & tough, as a result only capable individuals can be inducted. In order to maintain its traditions of professional excellence, the PAF is quite selective in choosing the right type of young men to maintain and support its sophisticated aircraft and equipment. Those who are selected and successfully complete PAF exhaustive and strenuous training can look forward to a rewarding, noble and honorable career. PAF offers a wide variety of these careers to the citizens of Pakistan. Life in the PAF is undoubtedly disciplined and demanding but then there are many rewards like handsome salary, accommodation, free medical facilities for self and family, generous leave and Air/Rail passage at concessional rates.Moreover, the Air Force environment is delightful because one is always in the company of cheerful, energetic and dedicated men who are ready to do their best for each other. This privilege can only be appreciated by those who serve in this elite force.

Career in Pak Air Force

Quality is of cardinal importance for the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), quality of equipment, quality of training and above all the quality of its men. PAF is selective in choosing the right type of young men as pilots to fly modern aircraft. Those who are selected and successfully go through a high standard of academic and professional training can look forward to a rewarding career in General Duty (Pilot) Branch. Engineers selected in PAF play a pivotal role in maintaining and enhancing the operational efficiency of Air Force. They lead a team of highly skilled technicians to ensure that all weapon systems operate to the optimum capacity and efficiency. Without Logistic support, even a well-prepared plan cannot be properly executed. In this regard, a well-organized logistic system is essentially required in which meticulous and industrious young men render their services and make full use of acquired knowledge related to supply and operational activities. Accurate and rapid information / data processing is a prerequisite for all management, logistic and operational plans and their day-to-day running. Young men with talent for computer related work can lead to enjoyable gratifying life as IT officer in the PAF.An Air Defence officer operates sophisticated radars, acts as the far seeing eyes of a fighter pilot and often gives the edge to come out victorious in aerial battles. A challenge worth meeting indeed. Efficient and effective administration is an intrinsic requirement of combat-oriented service. Intelligent and energetic young men in this specialty are chosen. Education officers in PAF make a meaningful contribution in order to groom and train officers to play their role effectively and efficiently. They respond adaptively to a variety of tasks, which they are expected to perform. PAF being a complex organization , requires to manage its finance with the expertise of hard working and painstaking staff of the Accounts Branch.PAF offers opportunity to those citizens of Pakistan who can make a positive and effective contribution in the finance management, having the flair to deal with figures and details. In the interpretation of PAF law and advising on legal matters, the Legal Branch of the PAF offers cohesive and disciplined functioning. Meteorological officers monitor the vast skies, analyze the seasonal changes and forecast the weather for the efficient flying and accurate combat preparedness of the PAF.Depending upon requirements, Pakistan Air Force (PAF) offers three types of Commission in various branches of the PAF in the Officers Cadre like Permanent Commission (PC), Special Purpose Short Service Commission (SPSSC) and Short Service Commission (SSC).

welfare

Rehabilitation of PAF Retired Officers

Pakistan Air Force Women Association (PAFWA)

Conduct of Hajj

PAF Retired Officers' Association (PAFROA)

New Policy on Medical Traetment Facilities for Retired PAF Personnel (Officers, JCOs, Airmen) and their Dependents through Fauji Foundation Hospitals REHABILITATION OF PAF RETIRED OFFICERS Introduction
The Rehabilitation of retired Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Officers, Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs) and Airmen has always been a matter of great concern for the PAF. In order to accommodate the ever increasing number of aspirants for rehabilitation and ensure judicial selection, a Rehabilitation Cell was established in March, 1997. The aim of this cell is to implement the rehabilitation policy in respect of retired officers in its true letter and spirit. A waiting list is maintained by this Cell according to the SOD dates of retiring officers. Personnel Branch explores avenues for re-employment in Govt/Semi Govt Departments and Fauji Foundation, while Shaheen Foundation explores employment opportunities in private enterprises and abroad. Selection of officers is based on point system as well as suitability for the job.Registration of Officers
PAF personnel desirous of seeking post retirement employment through the PAF are required to register themselves with Rehabilitation Cell, Personnel Branch. The registration is made by filling in the specified “Post Retirement Rehabilitation Bio-data Form” which may be obtained from Rehab Cell Per Branch AHQ Islamabad.
Point System In order to accord greater transparency and balance to the Rehab Policy, a point system has been instituted where weightage is given to various factors like number of years in service, privileges availed during service, deputations, compensations and performance earned during the service career. Selection factors have been accorded some numerical values, so that the aspirants scoring maximum points are automatically selected for the slot in the required rank. However, compassionate cases even when not on top of the list are also given due consideration at the discretion of Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) and Vice Chief of the Air Staff (VCAS). The point system has been proved very effective in decision making in majority of the cases.
Criteria for SelectionThe criteria for the selection of an officer against any slot is appended below :
Officers seeking post retirement employment through the PAF must have been released/retired honourably from service on completion of their specified age/service limit.
Officers must possess the requisite experience/qualification for the job.
Service seniority, professional competence and honours and awards earned during service.
Must be below 60 years or have any compassionate reasons or medical grounds necessitating assistance.
Preference is given to those officers who have not availed deputation/posting abroad during service.
Not allotted with any residential plot/agricultural land through Dte of Welfare.
Procedure for Selection and Nomination Selection and nomination of personnel is done in accordance with the following procedure :
Govt Department & Semi Govt
Selection is done by the Personnel Branch. A Panel is submitted to the CAS for nomination to the concerned Ministry/Deptt.
Shaheen Foundation Head Office and its Subsidiaries
Officers Selection is processed by Personnel Branch. Recommendations of Managing Director Shaheen Foundation are also incorporated. Final approval is made by Deputy Chief of the Air Staff Personnel, DCAS(P) in cases of officers upto the rank of Gp Capt and for Air Cdres & Above by the CAS. JCOs & Airmen Selection is processed by the Shaheen Employment Agency. Final approval by Managing Director (MD) Shaheen Foundation.
Private Enterprises including Foreign firms and employment abroad
Selection and nomination is processed by Shaheen Employment Agency (HQ Shaheen Foundation) for approval by the concerned organization.
Period of EmploymentInitially, officers are re-employed for a period of two years extended by another one year. However, in some cases officers are retained in Shaheen Foundation beyond 03 years provided no officer with requisite qualification, experience and managerial skill is available on the waiting list.

PAF Messes








Mess is a home for dining in members and a club for living-out members. It is an essential element in the upbringing of young officers keeping them under the eye of supervisor officers and assist them in general moulding of their characters. They provide a house within which a true homely life is established and which is so essential for the development of that camaraderie that alone can stand the strain of constant discipline. Following Messes are established at PAF Bases:Officers' Mess:
Officers' Messes are established on all PAF Bases. These messes are organized and run by a Mess Committee, which comprises of the following:
1. President Mess Committee 2. Mess Manager3. Bar Member4. Food Member5. Accommodation Member6. Property Member7. Treasurer8. Entertainment MemeberPakistan Air Force besides emphasizing on high standard of professionalism also caters for entertainment and recreational activities for its personnel. Musical functions and variety programmes are organized to provide entertainment to PAF personnel and to bring a pleasant change from stereotype life style.
JCO's / SNCO's / Airmen Messes
Apart from being a home for SNCO's and airmen, messes are an active centre of social gatherings. These messes carry fine traditions providing opportunities for PAF personnel to meet each other thus enhancing Esprit-de-corps. The messes are run by a Mess Committee which includes three elected members. Being a centre of social activities different sorts of shows and musical evenings are also held.

Life in Pakistan Air Force











Sports Arena
Sport is considered an essential element for physical fitness. The Directorate of Sports has been established to assist and monitor physical fitness programme in the Pakistan Air Force (PAF). To pursue this objective, physical fitness programme and sports activities are held at various levels. PAF sportsmen are encouraged to participate in the events of games and athletics at the inter base level every year. Participation in Competitions:
PAF teams participate in the following inter services and national championships held on annual basis:

Sr.
Sports


1
ATHLETICS
2
BASKETBALL

3
BOXING
4
CRICKET

5
FOOTBALL
6
GOLF

7
KABADDI
8
HOCKEY

9
SQUASH
10
SHOOTING

11
SWIMMING
12
LAWN TENNIS

13
VOLLEYBALL
14
SKI

15
POLO
16
YACHTING
Tournaments Organized By PAF
For the improvement of sports activities in general and encouragement of sportsmen in particular, the following national / international level tournaments are organized by the PAF:
National Ski Championships
Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) Open Golf Championship with cash prize of Rs 2,50,000/-.
CAS International Squash Championship with cash prize of US $ 25,000/-.
Enrolment of Outstanding Sportsmen in PAF
To implement the govt policy, 10 to 15 outstanding sportsmen are enrolled in the PAF every year.
Training Facilities
Selected sportsmen / teams are provided coaching / training on scientific lines at PAF's School of Physical Fitness, Peshawar.
Squash Academy
Squash academy has been established at PAF squash complex Peshawar under the supervision of PAF sports control committee to train / coach young upcoming squash players for further participation at the national / international level.
Ski Training School
PAF has a unique training /competition facilities for skiing at PAF Base, Kalabagh / Naltar.
PAF Yacht Club
PAF has training and competition facilities for sailing at PAF Base, Korangi Creek Karachi. Polo Riding School
PAF has Polo Riding Schools at Mushaf, Mianwali and Rislapur for imparting polo training to cadets and officers.

Life in P.A.F *Medical Facilities


The history of medical services in the armed forces is as old as that of armed conflict itself. All fighting arms have laid varying degrees of emphasis on the development of their medical services, depending on the nature and significance of casualties sustained in their campaigns. In recent times, selecting the right kind of man for the demanding profession of combat flying has become critically relevant. Medical fitness for a flyer needs stringent standards because of the uncommon stresses and strains involved in this job. The flyer has to be keen of eye and ear, quick in mind and nimble in body. Undetected or untreated health problems in aircrew tend to take an incalculable toll of lives and equipment. The Royal Pakistan Air Force (RPAF) inherited the British system of medical services which comprised a directorate at Air Headquarters, station medical inspection rooms, a few flight surgeons' facilities, a small hospital at Faisal, a Central Medical Board at Chaklala and a hospital with a medical training center at Kohat. The staff consisted of a handful of medical officers and a small number of paramedics and little by way of medical equipment. In spite of these meager resources, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) medical services started providing effective health cover to the Air Force from the very start.
Medical Standards
Medical Services play a very important role. It starts with the task of selecting the physically fit individual at the time of induction, putting in all endeavours to keep him/her fit during his/her career and providing all possible best care and treatment to the individual and his/her family whenever and wherever required.
Medical standards are laid down for the selection of officers and enlisted personnel, varying with the requirements of the branch or the trade into which entry is sought. Once a candidate joins the service, he or she needs to maintain the same degree of fitness to progress in the chosen career.
Medical Facilities of PAF Uniform Personnel
All serving uniform personnel and their families including parents are entitled to free medical care at all Military, Naval and PAF Hospitals throughout the country.
Medical Care of PAF's Civilian Employees and Their Families
According to the regulations for Medical Service of the Armed Forces, civilian employees of the PAF are also entitled to free medical treatment. The families of employees above grade five are allowed to have out-patient facilities only. Although the families of civilian employees in grade one to four are not entitled to out-patient facilities at service hospitals, yet the PAF continues to provide them with free consultation and treatment. This also includes dispensation of free medicines within the range of available non-public funds.
Medical Facilities to Civilian Non-Entitled Patients
Civilian non-entitled patients are provided diagnostic & therapeutic medical care at all PAF Hospitals. The service charges are very reasonable and even less than what is being charged in civil hospitals for the same facilities provided in the open market. PAF Hospitals and Health Care Units of PAF Hospitals at Masroor, Mushaf, Rafiqui, Mianwali, PAC Kamra, Islamabad and Faisal provide all modern diagnostic and therapeutic services to the entitled population. The medical squadrons of PAF render a wide spectrum of preventive and primary health-care services to the base population, including polio and viral immunization programmes. All these units have the Base Sick Quarters where less serious medical problems are professionally dealt with.
PAF Hospitals and Health Care Units
PAF Hospitals at Masroor, Mushaf, Rafiqui, Mianwali, PAC Kamra, Islamabad and Faisal provide all modern diagnostic and therapeutic services to the entitled population. The medical squadrons of PAF render a wide spectrum of preventive and primary health-care services to the base population, including polio and viral immunization programmes. All these units have the Base Sick Quarters where less serious medical problems are dealt with.
Flight Surgeon's Inspection Room
Each flying base has an establishment of Flight Surgeon's Inspection Room, commonly called Tech M I Room, where 2-3 Flight Surgeons render comprehensive medical service to the assigned aircrew and the technical manpower of the flying squadrons.
Dental Units
Dental Units in all PAF Bases provide Dental care services to the entitled individuals.
Aero Medical Institute
It was established in 1956 at PAF Base Masroor by amalgamation of Aircrew Indoctrination and Research Centre and Medical Assistants Training School. AMI PAF Masroor is the most prestigious and the only institute in the country which imparts training in Aerospace Medicine to the medical officers of Pak Armed Forces, PIA/CAA and the friendly countries.
Central Medical Board
CMB was established on 15 August 1947 at PAF Station Chaklala and shortly afterwards shifted to Lahore and moved to its present location PAF Base, Masroor in 1959. CMB PAF is responsible for Medical evaluation of civilian candidates for commission in GD(P) and ground branches of PAF, Medical evaluation of Army and Naval aviation personnel, conduct medical boards of PAF officers and airmen, medical boards required for issue and renewal of various civil aviation licenses, holding of special boards entrusted by the DMS(Air).
Medical Activities in PAF
A wide spectrum of health care activities are envisaged at different medical installations. Various health care services are as under:
Preventive Health Care Services. Children are vaccinated against Tuberculosis, Polio, Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus and Measles. Officers and Airmen are vaccinated against TAB and TT annually. Besides all the new entrants in PAF ie cadets and recruits are vaccinated against Hepatitis B, Anti-malarial measures in offices and residences are provided in the form of sprays, repellents, oral tablets and screening of houses/barracks against mosquitoes, Senior Medical Officer at the Base conducts monthly sanitary rounds of the barracks, shops and kitchens. Food handlers are examined in the laboratory for infectious diseases. Safe drinking water is provided by chlorination and ultraviolet filtration. Screening of newly inducted uniformed personnel for various diseases like Hepatitis `B', Hepatitis `C' and HIV is done. During service, screening is undertaken in the form of Annual Medical Examination and during boards on various occasions.
Promotive Health Care Services. Physical fitness programme like Games and PT are organized on daily basis for uniformed personnel at all levels. Physical efficiency tests for uniformed personnel are carried out on quarterly basis. Lectures and talks on first aid, common diseases, general hygiene and sanitation are periodically delivered to personnel.
Family Planning in the PAF. PAF has been successfully participating in the family planning and reproductive health programme since 1996 and a comprehensive Family Planning Project in collaboration with Family Planning Association of Pakistan (FPAP) has been implemented since March, 2003. Clinical/surgical services and contraceptive supplies are being provided in PAF Hospitals, Med Sqns and Community Welfare Centres (CWCs) under the care of trained staff. Lectures are given to male and female in this regard.
Primary Health Care Services. Sick report is observed in Medical Inspection Rooms for airmen and officers. Families of the officers and airmen report sick in Family Wings and Community Welfare Centres (CWCs). Officers, Airmen and their families report sick in the Dental Out Patient Department regarding any dental problems.
Secondary Health Care Services. Specialist's consultation is sought in complicated cases from PAF Hospitals, Naval Hospitals and Military Hospitals, Indoor medical facilities are provided by PAF Hospitals. Where PAF Hospitals are not available, this facility is provided by Combined Military Hospitals (CMHs) and Naval Hospitals. Basic diagnostic facilities are provided at Medical Squadron level, PAF hospitals and for sophisticated tests at Army Hospitals.
Tertiary Health Care Services. Officers, Airmen and families are referred for advanced facilities at various centres like Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, Armed Forces Institute of Cardiology and Armed Forces Institute of Dentistry etc. Certain exclusive centres at Military Hospitals provide special facilities to critically sick individuals through Pulmonology Deptt, Nephrology Deptt etc.
Rehabilitative Services. Physiotherapy Deptts are established at Medical Squadrons level to provide facilities to the officers, airmen and their families. Artificial limbs/prosthesis are provided by Fauji Foundation Hospitals. At Base level, small rehabilitation centres are also established to provide education to special children.

Introduction To Pakistan Air Force










PAF was born on 14th of August 1947, with the independence of Pakistan. The growth of PAF is a story of unusual struggle and sacrifice. A tiny auxiliary Service, with a small number of personnel and insignificant equipment, emerging as a powerful weapon of the country’s defence, was a thrilling phenomenon. The dedication of its pioneers shaped the future of a force, destined to gain respect, after proving its worth in the wars of 1965 and 1971, where it outclassed a much larger enemy, India. The story of PAF is a tale of development, despite heavy odds and limitations. It is the narration of a nation’s desire, for preserving its freedom, through the use of technology and willpower, working side by side.
PAF made a humble beginning with two fighter and one transport Squadrons, a negligible infrastructure, non-existent command structure, and almost nil maintenance facilities. All it had was the courage and determination of a handful of its personnel, who left no stone unturned, in shaping PAF into the Air Force of today.
The modernization programme taken up by PAF in 1952 paid dividends in times to come. In a phased programme, the ‘Halifax’, ‘Tempest’, ‘Attacker’, ‘Tiger Moth’, ‘Viking’, ‘Dakota’ and ‘Fury’ aircraft were progressively retired. With American, French and Chinese acquisitions, the PAF started flying F-86s, B-57s, F-104 Starfighters, F-6s and Mirages. This modernization programme started with the induction of F-86 Sabre, which changed the whole system of training, maintenance and operations. Air Power, was thus a major player in 1965 war, where the role played by both rival Air Forces, directly influenced outcome of the conflict. Particularly for the PAF, 1965 war brought out its fighting spirit, and implanted a culture of devotion and sacrifice.
Six years later, PAF once again met the call of duty for defence of the motherland. During 1971, separation of East Pakistan was a serious blow to the country. However, PAF fought valiantly on both fronts, and sacrificed blood for honour of the country.
Keenly learning from its war-experience and global developments, PAF embarked on a modernization programme for its Air Defence system. Pakistan Air Defence System known as ‘PADS’ was inducted to bolster PAF’s Air Defence Ground Environment. F-16 induction in the early 80s, brought in another era of technological resurgence for the PAF. Modern machines enabled PAF to master latest Air Power capabilities and techniques. These capabilities were put to good use during the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. The long period of mid and late 80s, was another test for PAF's fighting elements. Air Defence Alerts and Day / Night scrambles continued throughout the conflict, resulting in the shooting down of numerous intruding Soviet aircraft.
The post-Afghan war period for the PAF is a story of sanctions and of determination, to survive in a sanctioned environment. However, the ‘Pressler’, ‘Glenn’ and other Amendments, failed to dampen PAF’s spirit. Induction of F-7P and A-5 aircraft, was meant to offset the impact of these sanctions. Indigenization and integral strength of the organization, resulted in generating even more flying during the sanctioned period, in order to maintain operational preparedness.
Today PAF has 20 fighter Squadrons, an automated network of Air Defence Radars, complex maintenance facilities and an elaborate administration setup. In order to accomplish its mission in war, and to train for it in peacetime, PAF has evolved an adaptable and responsive organisation.