Abhinandan Varthaman Leaves Air Force for New Pilot Role
Decorated IAF officer Abhinandan Varthaman has reportedly moved into commercial aviation, joining FLY91 as a pilot after taking early retirement from the Indian Air Force.
Group Captain Abhinandan Varthaman, who was awarded the Vir Chakra for his bravery, has reportedly started a new chapter in commercial aviation after leaving the Indian Air Force.
According to PTI sources, Abhinandan joined Goa based regional airline FLY91 as a pilot in August this year. He has not made any public statement about the move so far. FLY91, meanwhile, said it does not comment on the personal details of its employees.
Abhinandan became widely known after the tense India Pakistan confrontation in February 2019. Following the Pulwama terror attack that killed 40 CRPF personnel, the Indian Air Force carried out air strikes on a target in Balakot, Pakistan.
The situation escalated when Pakistani fighter aircraft responded the following day. During the aerial engagement, then Wing Commander Abhinandan flew a MiG 21 Bison and pursued and shot down a Pakistani F 16 fighter, according to the Indian government’s account of the incident.
His own aircraft was hit during the encounter, forcing him to eject over Pakistani territory. He was subsequently taken into custody by Pakistani forces and remained there for three days before being released on March 1 amid intense diplomatic pressure.
Abhinandan sustained injuries after ejecting from his aircraft. His conduct during the operation and the courage he displayed earned him the Vir Chakra, India’s third highest wartime gallantry award.
The airline he has reportedly joined, FLY91, began commercial operations in March 2024. The carrier currently operates ATR 72 600 aircraft, with Goa and Hyderabad serving as key bases for its operations.
