Air Vice Marshal Syed Abbas Hussain was commissioned in the Air Force in 1941. He saw active service during World War II. He attended Frontier Warfare Course, Flying Instructors Course, Junior Commanders Course and Defence Services Staff College Course. He also attended Imperial Defence College Course in the UK. He has held the appointments of Chief Instructor at the Indian Air Force Academy, Chief Instructor, Air Wing, Defence Services Staff College, Director Training at Air Headquarters. In the field of flying training, the officer's achievements have been most commendable. While in command, he ensured operational efficiency of the Hunter Squadrons in a record time. It was under his guidance that the first 'Hunter Aerobatic Team' was formed, trained and perfected to win the laurels it did. As Commander of an operational base from 1966 to April 1968, he earned the reputation of a mature planner in the Indian Air Force. In his present appointment as Director of Operations, he has displayed outstanding professional knowledge and administrative ability.