The pilot, Group captain, N Kapoor, who flew Saina, complimented her but said that she was initially nervous.
Saina was briefed about the nuances of flying and cockpit familiarisation before getting into the aircraft.
She was the guest of honour at the closing ceremony of the sports week of the academy. The visit is aimed at inspiring the young cadets to achieve their goals.
In recent years, the IAF has been honouring sportspersons for their achievements in their respective fields and has granted them honorary ranks also.
Sachin Tendulkar was made an honorary Group Captain by the IAF last year for his achievements and along with Captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, was offered a sortie in frontline fighter aircraft SU-30MKI.
However, the offer made by then IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal P V Naik, has not been availed by the two cricketers so far.
