Resilience cannot be taught—it is ingrained through experience and perseverance. True leaders are not born but forged through challenges, much like resilience itself. These qualities enable individuals to transcend limitations and inspire those around them. When society draws inspiration from such leaders, it lays the foundation for collective growth and progress.
The editorial team at Business Outreach Magazine is honored to spotlight Capt. Poonam Devrakhyani, a dynamic leader whose journey reflects entrepreneurial agility and regulatory mastery. With over two decades of experience, Capt. Poonam has seamlessly transitioned from piloting aircraft to driving policy reforms, operational audits, and compliance management. A key figure at DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation), she has played an instrumental role in establishing frameworks that promote operational excellence and sustainable aviation practices.
Flying is more than a profession for Capt. Poonam—it is her lifelong passion. Over the course of her career, she has accumulated more than 8,000 flight hours on Boeing 737 and Airbus 320 aircraft, significantly contributing to the success of Jet Airways and AirAsia India. Her expertise extended beyond the cockpit as she independently managed flight operations in Tamil Nadu and served as the Principal Operations Inspector (POI) for various operators, ensuring seamless compliance and operational continuity.
At DGCA, Capt. Poonam provides advisory services to commercial, cargo, and non-scheduled operators, guiding them in achieving regulatory compliance aligned with domestic and international standards. Her strategic approach integrates AI-driven solutions to enhance safety, streamline operations, and reduce downtime through predictive analytics. As an advisor, she helps organizations design forward-thinking roadmaps, aligning their operations with evolving trends and long-term objectives.
Capt. Poonam’s vision reflects her forward-thinking mindset: “My vision is to lead aviation toward sustainable growth by integrating AI-driven solutions and predictive maintenance tools into operations. I aim to expand my advisory services, helping aviation organizations align strategies with regulatory frameworks and market demands. The future of aviation will be built on proactive management, where safety, efficiency, and sustainability coexist. Promoting gender diversity and mentorship will also be central to my vision, ensuring the next generation of professionals is prepared to navigate the challenges ahead.”
Looking ahead, Capt. Poonam emphasizes three key pillars of her work: Regulatory Compliance Advisory: Supporting commercial, cargo, and non-scheduled operators in meeting evolving standards. Strategic Leadership & Board Advisory: Guiding organizations toward sustainable growth strategies aligned with future market needs. Operational Efficiency Optimization: Leveraging AI-powered solutions and predictive analytics to enhance safety and reduce downtime.
Her educational journey further reflects her dedication to lifelong learning. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Aviation and a Master’s in Aerospace and Aviation from Toulouse Business School, along with a Master’s in Aviation Law and Air Transport Management. To stay ahead of market trends, Capt. Poonam has honed her expertise in AI tools, flight optimization, and predictive analytics through advanced coursework.
In recognition of her contributions, Capt. Poonam was honored in 2024 with multiple prestigious awards: INSC Young Achiever Award for implementing AI tools to enhance flight safety, INSC Young Researcher Award for her research on a data-driven approach to customer relationship management for airlines utilizing IoT and AI, Young Women Achiever Award in Leadership by the Women Leader Forum, and Young Women Aviation Leader of 2024 by the Tamil Nadu Business Excellence Awards for her contributions to aviation and nation-building.
Capt. Poonam Devrakhyani’s visionary leadership serves as an inspiration for the industry, demonstrating that success lies in embracing change, anticipating challenges, and optimizing opportunities.
“The future of aviation belongs to those who embrace change, anticipate challenges, and optimize opportunities.”
