Gp Capt Venu Kolal: A Pioneer in Experimental Flight Testing
Gp Capt Venu Kolal has been elected Fellow of the Society of Test Pilots in 2026, recognizing his distinguished career in experimental flight testing and test flight safety.
Gp Capt Venu Kolal has distinguished himself as a leading figure in experimental flight testing and test flight safety within the aerospace industry. Elected Fellow of the Society of Test Pilots in 2026, he represents the pinnacle of expertise and dedication in flight test engineering.
Career Highlights
With a Bachelor's degree in Science and a Master's in International Relations & Defense Studies from the Indian Air Force, Gp Capt Kolal has dedicated his career to advancing flight testing capabilities. From 1999–2004, he conducted in-service flight testing and initial tests of prototype aircraft including the Saras Light Transport Aircraft (LTA) and other advanced systems.
His expertise extends across developmental flight tests, fly-by-wire systems, autopilot testing, weapon systems integration, and brakes and drag avionics. With over 3,000 hours in leadership roles emphasising process-driven safety and effectiveness, he has become a cornerstone of India's flight test community.
Leadership & Recognition
As an active and enthusiastic SETP member, Gp Capt Kolal has been instrumental in fostering test flight safety practices across the Indian aerospace sector. His presentations at AFTPS symposia and leadership in HAL's corporate initiatives have significantly advanced the profession.
His election as Fellow of the Society of Test Pilots in 2026 reflects his exceptional contributions and marks a significant milestone in his illustrious career. Gp Capt Venu Kolal has indeed attained a position of distinction in the field of experimental flight testing.