Sakshi Kochhar, 18, from Himachal becomes youngest Indian to obtain commercial pilot licence

At an age when youngsters are not even eligible enough to get a driver’s licence, an 18-year-old girl from Himachal Pradesh has set a record by becoming the youngest Indian to obtain a commercial pilot licence.

Meet the inspiring Sakshi Kochhar from Parwanoo in Himachal, who received the licence on her 18th birthday and made the country proud. What’s more interesting is that Sakshi has never driven any other vehicle. She stated that the first vehicle she tried her hands on was an aeroplane and she even managed to land it safely.

Speaking to Republic World, Sakshi said, “Flying has always been my priority. It is a dream come true to bag the licence. I’m feeling out of this world; I cannot explain what I’m feeling. At the age of 10, I wanted to become a dancer, as I have always loved and enjoyed dancing and performing.”

“It was after I watched a video of my current trainer, AD Manek, I decided to challenge myself and set a record that no one else can break,” she added.

She moved to the USA and lived away from her family for training. After her theory training, she underwent advanced flight training. Later, she joined Mumbai’s Skyline Aviation Club for her Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) training. 

With tears of joy welling up in her eyes, Sakshi’s mother said she fulfilled all her dreams through her daughter.

“I have always been fond of teaching my children new activities and skills, and now I am living my life by supporting my daughter in achieving her dream,” she said.