Wahid Ahmad
Aviation Safety & Airspace Management Professional | Senior Air Traffic Controller | Indian Air Force
Tezpur,WB
Summary
Aviation Safety & Airspace Management Professional with 20 years of distinguished service in the Indian Air Force. Brings expertise in air traffic management, aviation safety, security operations, and intelligence. Strong background in leadership, strategic planning, and operational oversight. Successfully led critical missions and teams across domestic and international assignments. Holds an M.Sc. in Defence and Strategic Studies. Recognized with multiple commendations for outstanding performance and leadership. Experience includes managing complex airspace operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, optimizing safety protocols, and conducting risk assessments to enhance aviation security. Adept at training and mentoring personnel, advising on aviation safety strategies, and executing high-stakes air traffic control operations. Seeks to transition skills and leadership experience into a civilian role within the aviation, security or HR sectors. Goal is to continue contributing to operational excellence, safety, and HR management.
Overview
2025
2025
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior ATC Officer
Air Force Station Tezpur
6 2022 - Current
- Managed Air Traffic Services at Joint Civil-Military Airport, ensuring aviation safety and operational efficiency
- Implemented Flexible Use of Airspace Concept, coordinating with regional control centres
- Trained ARFF Crew in rescue procedures and managed runway resurfacing project
- Reviewed security protocols, conducted emergency exercises, and led team of 15 ATC officers and 56 ARFF Crew.
- Established effective relationships with key stakeholders both internally and externally for increased collaboration opportunities.
- Mentored junior officers and air-warriors, helping them develop their skills and advance in their careers.
- Improved team morale and performance with consistent feedback and recognition of achievements.
Commanding Officer and Asst Provost Marshal
Indian Air Force Police HQ
06.2020 - 05.2022
- Led security oversight for 30+ districts, ensuring safety of Air Force personnel across a large region
- Advised senior leadership on critical security matters, demonstrating strategic thinking and communication skills
- Conducted investigations and security audits, implementing measures to enhance overall security standards
- Authored and implemented service paper on security inspection procedures, showcasing policy development abilities
- Managed and led a team of 30 personnel, demonstrating strong leadership and personnel management skills.
- Maintained high morale within the unit by recognizing exemplary work performance contributing towards a cohesive and dedicated team.
- Delivered accurate reports on Security State of the Units/Air Force Bases timely, enabling key stakeholders to make informed decisions promptly.
- Enhanced team performance by implementing effective communication strategies and fostering a collaborative environment.
- Ensured compliance with internal policies and procedures as well as relevant regulations governing military Investigations.
- Coordinated with law enforcement agencies to respond to security incidents and emergencies.
- Developed and implemented security policies, procedures and systems to protect personnel, property and data.
ATC Instructor
ATC Officers Training Establishment
08.2018 - 05.2019
- Trained Air Force officers in Advanced Air Traffic Management, Air Laws, Air Traffic Surveillance Services, ICAO procedures and Govt of India Regulations.
- Assessed skill gaps for trainee officers and developed training courses to meet identified needs.
- Mentored new instructors, aiding their transition into the role and ensuring effective delivery of course content.
- Developed and delivered comprehensive theoretical and practical ATC curriculum
- Facilitated hands-on training using Visual Tower and Radar Simulators for realistic ATC scenarios
- Led publication of institutional Coffee Table Book 'Flying without Wings & Blades', as Editor-in-Chief
- Implemented interactive teaching methodologies to enhance knowledge transfer and skill development
- Demonstrated expertise in air traffic control operations, regulations, and training program development.
Commanding Officer & ATS In-Charge
Air Force Element, Paro International Airport
08.2016 - 08.2018
- Managed Air Traffic Services for international civil and military flights at Paro International Airport
- Advised Department of Air Transport and Civil Aviation Authority on air traffic management and regulatory compliance
- Developed and implemented Airport Emergency Plan, conducting full-scale aerodrome exercise
- Fostered international collaboration between Bhutan and Indian aviation authorities
- Authored strategic paper on military relations, considered for implementation by Vice Chief of Air Staff
- Demonstrated crisis management skills, successfully handling aircraft emergency situation
- Led and managed team of 50 airmen and civilians, overseeing personnel operations.
- Maintained high morale within the unit by recognizing exemplary work performance contributing towards a cohesive and dedicated team.
- Managed budgets and resources responsibly to ensure optimal allocation and judicious utilisation of funds for Unit functioning.
- Partnered with Bhutan Civil Aviation Authority and Department of Air Transport (Bhutan) for efficient conduct of ICAO's Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP) at Paro International Airport in Aug 2018.
- Developed customized emergency response plans to effectively handle critical situations while minimizing damage and loss.
- Collaborated with airlines and other stakeholders to optimise airport resources and meet operational demands.
Aviation Safety Inspection Officer
Air Force Station Jammu
12.2011 - 08.2014
- Conducted Flight Safety audits as Administrative Safety Inspection Officer, evaluating fatigue management, shift schedules, fire safety, and aerodrome conditions
- Maintained detailed records, ensuring accurate documentation of all inspection results.
- Ensured compliance with IAF and Govt of India regulations, adhering to strict safety standards during inspections.
- Promoted aviation safety culture through compliance, risk management, and continuous improvement initiatives
- Led and managed a team of 45 ARFF Crew members, overseeing both personal and professional development.
- Developed a comprehensive Bird and Animal Hazard Control Strategy for Jammu Airport.
- Implemented measures for effective Bird and Animal Hazard control and prevention from Foreign Object Damage.
- Implemented Stress and Fatigue management measures amongst ATC Officers and ARFF Crew at Jammu Airport.
Area Controller
Northern Area Control Centre (Radar)
04.2010 - 12.2011
- Managed air traffic flow as Radar Controller in high-density Jammu & Kashmir airspace
- Improved flight efficiency through optimal flight level assignments and direct routing for civil and military aircraft
- Coordinated with Delhi Area Control Centre and regional destinations to ensure seamless air traffic management.
Air Traffic Controller
Air Force Station Bagdogra
01.2008 - 04.2010
- Managed air traffic control services as Aerodrome and Approach Controller at high-density Joint User Bagdogra Airfield for civil and military flights
- Upgraded to ATC Category B and Radar Approach Control certifications, enhancing airspace management skills
- Supervised Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Services, ensuring emergency readiness and operational safety
- Coordinated air traffic flow among pilots, ground staff, and controllers to optimize safe and efficient aircraft movements.
Air Traffic Controller
Air Force Station Ambala
01.2006 - 12.2007
- Provided Air Traffic Services as Aerodrome and Approach Controller for military and civil flights in Ambala Airspace
- Attained ATC Category 'C' certification, demonstrating advanced air traffic management skills
- Optimized air traffic flow between New Delhi and northern destinations, reducing fuel consumption and flight times
- Facilitated safe and efficient aircraft movements through coordination with pilots, ground staff, and controllers.
Fight Cadet and Trainee Air Traffic Controller
Air Force Academy
01.2005 - 12.2005
- Completed Basic ATC Training at ATC Officers' Training Establishment, Air Force Academy, Hyderabad
- Qualified as Military Air Traffic Controller, certified for Aerodrome and Approach Control Functions
- Trained at India's exclusive military ATC training and testing facility.
Education
Master of Science - Defence & Strategic Studies
04.2001 - 01.2020
- International Relations and Collaborations, Military Diplomacy, Defence Economic Management, Indo-Sino Strategic Relations, Internal Security
- Final Grade: 72.7%
- Dissertation: Remodeling DRDO on the lines of DARPA to revitalize Military Aircraft R&D
Basic Air Traffic Controllers Course - undefined
Qualified to become a Military Air Traffic Controller ready to undertake the Aerodrome and Approach Control Functions at all Military Airports
Certification - Air Traffic Surveillance Services
09-2008
Air Traffic Surveillance Services Skills, Doc 8168 (Instrument Design - limited application), Radar Theory - ATCR4T and ATCR-33S Radars, Aviation Safety
Certification - Methods of Instructions For Ground Instructors
04.2001 -
- Grade: Above Average
- Teaching Techniques, Education Psychology, Classroom Management
Certification - Human Factors (Aerospace Safety)
04.2001 -
Fatigue Management, Crew Resource Management, Stress & Workload, Decision Making, Communication
Certification - Flight Maintenance & Aviation Safety
04.2001 -
Subjects: Airport Safety Audits, Aircraft Accident/Incident Investigations, Implementation of Airport Emergency Plans
Certification - Mobile Forensics
04.2001 -
First Responder Procedure for Handing Mobile Phone from Scene of Crime, Mobile Forensic Procedures, Tools and Techniques Used for Extraction & Analysis of Data from Mobile Phones
Certification - Criminology
04.2001 -
Security Management, Terrorism, Crime Scene Analysis, Cyber-crime and information security
Certification - Cyber Crime Course
04.2001 -
Types of Cyber crimes, Evidence collection & preservation, Preliminary Investigation, Law Enforcement (Cyber Security), Cyber Security Awareness
X -
Grade: First Division
XII -
Grade: 66.6%
Certificate Course - Airport Business Operations
04.2001 -
- Airport Business Strategy: Developed a comprehensive understanding of airport management frameworks, including planning, budgeting, and business continuity.
- Financial Management: Gained insights into airport funding models, capital improvement programs, and financial performance assessments.
- Aeronautical and Non-Aeronautical Revenue: Studied strategies to optimize both aeronautical charges and non-aeronautical revenue streams, such as concessions, real estate, and parking.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Learned to manage relationships with airlines, regulatory bodies, and other key stakeholders to foster effective collaboration.
- Customer Experience and Marketing: Acquired knowledge of enhancing passenger satisfaction and creating effective airport marketing and communications programs.
Certificate Course - Terminal And Landside Operations
04.2001 -
- Terminal Operations Management: Understanding of passenger flow, baggage handling systems, and terminal services to enhance efficiency and customer experience.
- Landside Operations: Expertise in managing parking, ground transportation, and vehicle flow to ensure smooth airport access.
- Emergency Preparedness: Learned best practices in terminal evacuation, security response, and coordination with airport authorities during emergencies.
- Security Management: Studied strategies for maintaining secure operations in terminal and landside areas.
- Operational Efficiency & Sustainability: Emphasis on improving operational processes while minimizing environmental impact.
Certificate Course - Airside Operations And Management
04.2001 -
Developed a comprehensive understanding of airside operations at airports, focusing on the interaction between infrastructure, safety, and personnel. Gained expertise in:
- Airside Infrastructure & Facilities: Studied the key physical elements and personnel required for smooth airside operations.
- Safety Management Systems: Learned to design and implement safety protocols to mitigate operational risks.
- Airside Operations: Acquired knowledge of daily ground operations, including aircraft movements and coordination.
- Emergency Response & Management: Explored best practices in responding to airside emergencies and restoring normal operations.
- Airside Security: Analyzed the strategies to protect sensitive airport areas from security threats.
- Environmental Management: Reviewed environmental impacts of airside activities and mitigation strategies.
- Industry Safety Performance Indicators: Examined global safety metrics and industry collaboration for safety improvement.
Certification - Provost And Security
04.2001 -
- Grade: Exceptional
- Security Audits of Air Force Bases, Criminal Investigation, Law Enforcement, Vigilance, Military Intelligence, Counterintelligence, Cyber Security (Limited Application)
PG Diploma in Management (Human Resources) - Business Management (HR)
04.2001 -
- Grade: 66.09%
- Employee Relations Management: Mastered techniques for fostering positive relationships between employees and management, promoting a healthy workplace culture.
- Performance Management: Focused on aligning employee performance with the strategic goals of the organization through effective monitoring, feedback, and appraisal systems.
- Organizational Upgradation & Development: Gained expertise in leading organizational change and development initiatives to drive business growth and innovation.
- Strategic HR Management: Learned to align human resource policies and practices with overall business strategies for optimal workforce utilization.
- Compensation & Rewards Management: Studied methodologies for developing competitive compensation structures and rewards systems to motivate and retain talent.
- Training & Development: Acquired skills in designing and implementing effective training programs to enhance employee skills and organizational capability.
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology, Pol Science, Public Administration
05-2004
Grade: 59.5%
Skills
Air Traffic Management
Operational Efficiency
Facility Inspections
Airport Security
Flight coordination
Operations Management
Problem-Solving
Team Leadership
Employee Relations
Adaptability
Employee Motivation
Employee Scheduling
Reliability
Performance Evaluation and Monitoring
Aviation Safety and Regulatory Compliance
Emergency Response Planning
Crisis Management
Diplomatic Relations
Strategic Planning
International Cooperation
Leadership and Team Management
Technical Writing (service papers, emergency plans)
Military-Civil Liaison
Aerodrome Operations & Management
Aviation Security and Safety
Intergovernmental Communication
Work Coordination
Report Writing
Emergency Response Coordination
Investigation leadership
Written Communication
Interpersonal Communication
Information Verification
Community Relations
Reporting and documentation
Crime Prevention
Incident Reporting
Investigation documentation
Time Management
Multitasking Abilities
Decision-Making
Adaptability and Flexibility
Organizational Skills
Interpersonal Skills
Effective Communication
Self Motivation
Professionalism
Employee Appraisal
Teaching strategies
Mentoring abilities
Classroom Management
Lesson Planning
Testing and grading
Curriculum Development
Faculty Collaboration
Program Development
Instructional Methods
Ground Handling
Asset Management
Facilities Management
Excellent Communication
Otherdistinctions
- Category A (highest rated) Air Traffic Controller since 13 Sep 2013 in the Indian Air Force.
- Two times ATC Instructor at ATC Officers Training Establishment, Air Force Academy, Hyderabad
- Two times Commanding Officer of Air Force Units in India and Bhutan
- Commendation Medals by: Air Officer Commanding in Chief, Training Command (2005), Air Officer Commanding in Chief, Western Air Command (2014), Chief of The Army Staff (2018)
Timeline
Commanding Officer and Asst Provost Marshal - Indian Air Force Police HQ
06.2020 - 05.2022
ATC Instructor - ATC Officers Training Establishment
08.2018 - 05.2019
Commanding Officer & ATS In-Charge - Air Force Element, Paro International Airport
08.2016 - 08.2018
Aviation Safety Inspection Officer - Air Force Station Jammu
12.2011 - 08.2014
Area Controller - Northern Area Control Centre (Radar)
04.2010 - 12.2011
Air Traffic Controller - Air Force Station Bagdogra
01.2008 - 04.2010
Air Traffic Controller - Air Force Station Ambala
01.2006 - 12.2007
Fight Cadet and Trainee Air Traffic Controller - Air Force Academy
01.2005 - 12.2005
Defence Services Staff College, University of Madras - Master of Science, Defence & Strategic Studies
04.2001 - 01.2020
Ground Instructors School, Air Force Station Tambaram, Chennai - Certification, Methods of Instructions For Ground Instructors
04.2001 -
Institute of Flight Safety, Palam, Delhi - Certification, Human Factors (Aerospace Safety)
04.2001 -
Institute of Flight Safety, Indian Air Force - Certification, Flight Maintenance & Aviation Safety
04.2001 -
National Forensic Science University, New Delhi - Certification, Mobile Forensics
04.2001 -
National Forensic Science University - Certification, Criminology
04.2001 -
Institute of Information Warfare - Certification, Cyber Crime Course
04.2001 -
Airport Council International (ACI) - Certificate Course, Airport Business Operations
04.2001 -
Airport Council International (ACI) - Certificate Course, Terminal And Landside Operations
04.2001 -
Airport Council International, (Montreal, Canada) - Certificate Course, Airside Operations And Management
04.2001 -
Air Force Intelligence School, Pune - Certification, Provost And Security
04.2001 -
Institute of Management Training, Gaziabad (UP) - PG Diploma in Management (Human Resources), Business Management (HR)
04.2001 -
ATC Officers Training Establishment, Air Force Academy (Hyderabad) - Basic Air Traffic Controllers Course,
Senior ATC Officer - Air Force Station Tezpur
6 2022 - Current
ATC Officers Training Establishment, Air Force Academy - Certification, Air Traffic Surveillance Services
Central Board of Secondary Education / Kendriya Vidyalaya Cossipore - X,
National Open School, New Delhi / All India Senior Secondary School Examination - XII,
Osmania University - Bachelor of Arts, Sociology, Pol Science, Public Administration