Soaring High in the World of Drones – A success story of Rinsha Pattakal from Malappuram
Soaring High
In a groundbreaking achievement that is set to inspire generations to come, Rinsha Pattakal, a native of Malappuram, has etched her name in the annals of history by becoming Kerala’s first woman drone pilot to receive a licence for small-category drones from the esteemed Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). With an unwavering passion for drone technology and an unyielding determination, Rinsha has soared to new heights, shattering gender norms along the way.
Pioneering Pathways in Drone Aviation
Rinsha’s journey toward this remarkable milestone has been nothing short of extraordinary. While still pursuing her higher secondary education, she displayed an exceptional zeal for drone technology, a passion that grew stronger during her interim period before embarking on her B.Tech in Civil Engineering. It was during this time that Rinsha’s dedication and commitment caught the attention of Autonomous Unmanned Aerial Systems Private Limited, a renowned organisation based in Ernakulam, which provided her with the training needed to spread her wings in the world of drones.
Rinsha’s journey from a determined enthusiast to a licensed drone pilot took flight at the prestigious ASAP Kerala Community Skill Park in Kasaragod. This institution stands as the sole DGCA-approved drone flying training centre in Kerala, providing aspiring pilots with a rigorous and comprehensive training program. Rinsha’s involvement in the drone flying training batch at this esteemed institution made her a trailblazer, breaking through traditional gender barriers and inspiring young women across the nation.
Empowering Through Education: The Transformative Training Program
The path to becoming a DGCA-licensed drone pilot is an intensive one, and Rinsha wholeheartedly embraced this challenge. The 96-hour executive program in the small-category drone piloting offered by ASAP Kerala covers a diverse range of subjects— including specialised training in 3D mapping, UAV survey, UAV assembly and programming, and aerial cinematography. This holistic curriculum equips students with a robust skill set, enabling them to excel in the dynamic and ever-evolving drone industry.
Unlocking the Potential of Drone Technology
Rinsha’s achievement goes beyond personal success; it underscores the revolutionary potential of drone technology across various domains. From aerial surveillance and rescue operations to traffic monitoring and agriculture, drones are changing the landscape of diverse industries. Rinsha aptly pointed out, “Drones are revolutionising various fields, including official and civil applications such as aerial surveillance, rescue operations, traffic monitoring, weather monitoring, firefighting, drone photography, videography, agriculture, and delivery services.” Her words reflect the boundless possibilities that drones bring to the table.
Empowering the Future: Enrolling in the Transformative Course
In India, operating drones now requires the DGCA Drone Remote Pilot Certificate, a prerequisite successfully achieved by Rinsha. The course at ASAP Kerala provides aspiring drone pilots aged 18 and above, who have completed their 10th-standard education and possess a valid passport, with a comprehensive understanding of drone flying regulations and guidelines. This ensures responsible and safe drone operations and opens up exciting opportunities in the world of aviation.
A Beacon of Progress: Kerala’s Technological Leap
Rinsha Pattakal’s unprecedented achievement not only recognises her victory but also represents Kerala’s forward-thinking mentality. The state prepares the path for a future with boundless potential by adopting cutting-edge technology and encouraging diversity. Rinsha’s accomplishment demonstrates the strength of dedication as well as the influence of education in propelling humans to unexpected heights.
She has risen above and beyond boundaries in a world where they are designed to be challenged. Her story is an inspiration, a monument to what can be accomplished when passion, devotion, and education are combined. Rinsha has not only made history as Kerala’s first licenced female drone pilot, but she has also paved the way for others to follow in her footsteps.
