HAL pilot becomes first Indian to be named Fellow by Society of Experimental Test Pilots

Updated – May 20, 2026 12:25 am IST – Bengaluru

The Hindu Bureau

K.K. Venugopal, executive director and chief test pilot (Fixed Wing) of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
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Gp Capt. K.K. Venugopal has become the first Indian test pilot to be elected as a Fellow of the Society of Experimental Test Pilots (SETP).

Gp Capt. Venugopal, who is the executive director and Chief Test Pilot (Fixed Wing), Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), has been involved in key indigenous programmes like the Saras LTA, LCA Mk I, HTT 40, HJT 36 and LCA Mk IA.

HAL said this honour has been conferred in recognition of his contributions as an ETP throughout his career spanning over 25 years. “The SETP represents a distinguished global community of test pilots and aerospace professionals who have made significant contributions to the advancement of flight testing. It is based in Lancaster, California, USA. Gp Capt. Venugopal’s election to this prestigious fellowship highlights his expertise and contributions to the field of aerospace testing. It also signifies recognition of the Indian aerospace sector in general and HAL as the principal entity,” the defence PSU said.

Published – May 19, 2026 08:14 pm IST