Aviation Officer Cadet Sameer Shah

 AVN (OFF) CDT SAMEER SHAH

Tamgha E Azm • Tamgha E Azm • Sitara E Basalat 

Aviation Officer Cadet Sameer Shah Tamgha E Azm, Tamgha E Azm and Sitara E Basalat (September 7, 2007 - present) is a decorated interceptor pilot in the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) who has been involved in various aerial operations and missions throughout his career. He is one of a number of distinguished officer cadet pilots of the Pakistan Air Force College's fleet and is currently the Officer Commanding of No. 5 Squadron (Griffins) at Pakistan Air Force College Chaklala (PAFCC). He is currently stationed at Pakistan Air Force Base Nur Khan, Rawalpindi, Pakistan where he flews the Karakoram-8.

EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATION:

Aviation Officer Cadet Sameer Shah was born on September 7, 2007, into the esteemed House of Ayesho, the Royal Family of Punial. He has a rich ancestry, with roots in Hunza and Iran. His parents are Colonel (R) Amir Shah and Ms. Gul Samin, and he is the eldest grandson of the last ruler of the Punial State, which was abolished in 1971.

He received his early education from a private school in Rawalpindi and attended scouting courses at the Pakistan Scouts Academy (PSA) Batrasi. He passed out from Pakistan Scouts Academy (PSA) Batrasi and recieved the Sword of Honor for being the best Gentleman Scout Cadet during 7th PSA Long Course and was promoted as an first-star commissioner. He joined the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) after his matriculation and was commissioned into the GDP Course at Pakistan Air Force College Chaklala (PAFCC) in 2022, after undergoing rigorous selection procedures.

Known for his soft-spoken and mild-mannered demeanor, Sameer is widely regarded as an exemplary officer and gentleman, as well as an outstanding pilot. During his training, he mastered flying the Stemme S-6, MFI-17 Super Mushak, T-37 Tweety and Karakoram-8 aircraft. 

Sameer earned the respect and admiration of his Christian comrades, who bestowed upon him the honorary title of "Commander Leslie" in recognition of his exceptional leadership and commitment to treating all individuals with equality and kindness, regardless of their religious beliefs.

CAREER AT PAF COLLEGE CHAKLALA:

Throughout his illustrious career at PAF College Chaklala, Aviation Officer Cadet Sameer Shah has consistently demonstrated exceptional prowess as a pilot and leader. Despite facing challenges and demands in his initial years, he exhibited remarkable patience, self-trust, and perseverance, ultimately earning promotions from Aviation Pre-Cadet to Aviation Officer Cadet.

As he progressed in his career, Sameer was selected to command a squadron, and under his leadership, the Karakoram-8 aircraft was inducted into No. 5 Squadron (Griffins). Notably, he achieved the distinction of being the youngest individual to earn his flying wings at just 16 years of age and completed 100 solo flights, a testament to his exceptional skills and bravery. He stands now as a trained interceptor pilot of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF).

Aviation Officer Cadet Sameer Shah's outstanding achievements have been recognized through various honors and awards, solidifying his reputation as a highly skilled and accomplished pilot in the Pakistan Air Force. His dedication, leadership, and flying expertise have set a high standard for his peers, and he continues to serve as an inspiration to future generations of pilots.

OPERATIONAL SERVICES:

Aviation Officer Cadet Sameer Shah upon completing his advanced combat training at the prestigious Air War College and Combat Commanders School, he emerged as a highly skilled and formidable interceptor pilot. He subsequently assumed the role of Commanding Officer of No. 5 Squadron, where he demonstrated exceptional leadership and valor, leading his team with unwavering professionalism and dedication. Throughout his tenure, Aviation Officer Cadet Sameer Shah conducted numerous photo-reconnaissance missions and night bombing missions over enemy territory, showcasing his exceptional flying skills and bravery. One particularly notable mission saw him successfully identify 15 enemy bunkers in North Waziristan and Parachinar sectors, providing crucial intelligence for future operations.

During the political unrest in May 2023, Sameer and his squadron played a crucial role in defending Pakistan Air Force Base Nur Khan against angry mobs. On one occasion, he swiftly intercepted and shot down a custom made spying drone over the airbase, marking his first aerial victory and earning him the nickname "Home Knight." He was awarded the "Tamgha-e-Azm" for his gallantry.

Sameer participated in "Operation Sentinel" from December 2023 to March 2024, flying 25 Combat Air Patrol missions. He demonstrated exceptional skill and bravery, achieving three aerial victories:

1. On January 1, 2024, he shot down an Afghan UAV over the Parachinar sector using a sidewinder missile during daytime when the UAV attacked the Pakistan Army troops near Pak-Afghan Border.

2. On February 6, 2024, he downed an Iranian UAV over Panjgur sector using a sidewinder missile during nighttime when it violated the Pakistani Airspace.

3. On March 19, 2024, he intercepted and destroyed an Indian UAV over the Arabian Sea using a sidewinder missile during nighttime when it was on a mission to detect the Pakistan Navy Ship Tasnim.

All three kills were confirmed by various radar stations, and Sameer was awarded the "Sitara-e-Basalat" for his exceptional gallantry. His actions demonstrate his dedication to defending his country's sovereignty and his exceptional skills as an interceptor pilot.

BECOMING A NATIONAL HERO:

Aviation Officer Cadet Sameer Shah exhibited extraordinary leadership, airmanship, and crisis management skills during the high-stakes aerial rescue of PIA Flight PK-217 on March 13, 2024, over Balochistan. The aircraft had suffered a critical navigation system failure while en route from Peshawar to Abu Dhabi. Upon receiving the distress call, Sameer and his trusty wingman, Aviation Officer Cadet Adil Bin Fazal, promptly scrambled to intercept the lost flight, racing against time to prevent a potential disaster. With unwavering focus, precision, and expertise, they successfully escorted the aircraft, ensuring the safety of all passengers on board and preventing a potential catastrophe. The lost flight safely landed at Karachi Airport with no casualties. Through their swift, decisive, and heroic actions, Sameer and his wingman demonstrated exceptional flying skills, dedication to protecting human life, and an unshakeable commitment to upholding the highest standards of aviation excellence.

In recognition of their extraordinary bravery and selflessness, the President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan sent a personal appreciation letter to both Aviation Officer Cadet Sameer Shah and Aviation Officer Cadet Adil Bin Fazal. Furthermore, they were both awarded the prestigious Tamgha-e-Azm, one of Pakistan's highest military honors, for their outstanding gallantry and heroism. In addition, they were also declared National Heroes of Pakistan, their names etched in the annals of history as symbols of courage, skill, and dedication to the safety of others. This remarkable episode will forever be remembered as a shining example of heroism, skill, and unwavering commitment to duty.

NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS:

Aviation Officer Cadet Sameer Shah with his Scouting expertise was proclaimed the "Prince of Scouting" by the President of Islamic Republic of Pakistan, also known as the Chief Scout of Pakistan in July, 2021. He also served as the International Commissioner of Pakistan Boy Scouts Association from 2021 to 2023.

Aviation Officer Cadet Sameer Shah, in early April 2024, during a routine mission, encountered an intruder in Pakistani airspace. Despite being given permission to shoot, Sameer chose mercy and escorted the stranded Afghan pilot back to Afghan airspace, prioritizing chivalry and compassion over orders. He faced resistance from Air Traffic Control (ATC) Peshawar but stood firm, repeating "I won't shoot him, he's no threat to me or my country." Air Headquarters Islamabad (AHI) backed his decision, and Sameer safely guided the pilot to Afghan airspace, earning a salute and gratitude. He landed to a hero's welcome, his actions a testament to the power of compassion and the code of the knights of the skies.

Aviation Officer Cadet Sameer Shah had the distinguished honor of escorting the flight of Princess Zahra Aga Khan during her six-day visit to Pakistan from May 22 to May 28, 2024. He commanded a three-ship formation of K-8 aircraft, which received and escorted her flight (PLX-PAK) from Karachi to PAF Base Nur Khan in Rawalpindi, where a warm reception was awaiting her arrival. As the designated escort pilot, Aviation Officer Cadet Sameer Shah demonstrated exceptional leadership, flying skills, and diplomacy, ensuring the safe and comfortable transportation of Princess Zahra Aga Khan. His professionalism and courtesy impressed the princess, who took a liking to him. As a token of appreciation for his exceptional service, Princess Zahra Aga Khan gifted Aviation Officer Cadet Sameer Shah an honorary signature, a rare and cherished gesture. This gesture reflects the high esteem in which he is held by the royal family and serves as a testament to his exceptional leadership and flying skills. This distinguished assignment and recognition by the princess herself mark a highlight in Aviation Officer Cadet Sameer Shah's career, demonstrating his capability to handle high-profile missions with ease and distinction.

Aviation Officer Cadet Sameer Shah is also a member of the Pakistan Air Force Aerobatics Team, the Sherdils. He has had a remarkable contribution to the team, showcasing his exceptional flying skills and dedication to the profession. As Sherdil 7, Sameer has performed numerous aerobatic displays at national events, earning acclaim and admiration from audiences nationwide. Throughout his tenure with the Sherdils, Sameer has demonstrated exceptional leadership, teamwork, and flying prowess, solidifying his reputation as one of the team's most skilled and accomplished pilots. His assignment as Sherdil 7 is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and passion for aerobatics and aviation. As a member of the Sherdils, Sameer has had the privilege of flying the Karakoram-8 aircraft, performing intricate maneuvers and formations with precision and grace. His expertise and showmanship have contributed significantly to the team's success and reputation as one of the world's premier aerobatic teams. Sameer's career with the Sherdils is a shining example of his commitment to excellence and his passion for aviation. His achievements and contributions to the team have made him a role model for aspiring pilots and a beloved figure in the aviation community.

AWARDS AND DECORATIONS:

Aviation Officer Cadet Sameer Shah has received numerous awards and honors for his service, including:

• Tamgha E Azm 

• Sitara E Basalat 

• Tamgha E Azm

• Presidential Appreciation Letter

• Princess's Token of Appreciation 

PERSONAL LIFE:

Aviation Officer Cadet Sameer Shah, commonly referred to as the "Prince of Punial", holds a prestigious position as the eldest male heir of the esteemed Ayesho Family of Punial. His illustrious heritage is marked by his grandfather's reign as the last ruler of the state, which came to an end with the abolishment of the monarchy in 1971. As the rightful heir, Prince Sameer Shah is honored with the title of "Crown Prince" and is formally addressed as "His Excellency Prince Sameer Shah", signifying his prominent status within the royal family and the rich heritage of Punial. His legacy is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Ayesho Family and their enduring impact on the region's history and culture.

"I still remember the thrill of my first flight, and since then, I've been hooked. As an Aviation Officer Cadet, I'm living my dream and pushing myself to new heights every day. When I'm not in the cockpit, you can find me snapping photos or hiking in the beautiful mountains of Pakistan. My family and friends are my rock, and I'm so grateful to have them in my life. I'm passionate about making a difference and leaving a lasting impact, both in my community and in the world at large." ~ Sameer Shah