Hero Pilot Abhinandan Varthaman Retires From IAF, Joins FLY91 As Commercial Pilot

Former Indian Air Force Group Captain and Vir Chakra awardee Abhinandan Varthaman has begun a new chapter in aviation, joining Goa-based regional airline FLY91 as a pilot, according to sources.

Varthaman, who became widely known after the dramatic India-Pakistan aerial combat in 2019, joined the airline in August, the sources said.

His move comes after a distinguished career in the Indian Air Force, where he served as a fighter pilot. He was awarded the Vir Chakra, India’s third-highest wartime gallantry award, for his role in the aerial engagement with Pakistan in February 2019.

The 2019 incident brought Varthaman international attention after he shot down a Pakistani fighter aircraft during the aerial combat. His own aircraft was subsequently brought down, following which he was captured and held in Pakistan for three days before being released and returning to India.

The Vir Chakra citation praised him for displaying an “exceptional sense of duty” during the dogfight.

Varthaman's move to commercial aviation marks a significant transition from flying fighter aircraft in the IAF to operating passenger aircraft in the civilian sector.

FLY91 began commercial operations in March 2024 and currently operates a fleet of six ATR 72-600 aircraft. The airline has its two operating bases in Goa and Hyderabad and focuses on regional air connectivity.

When contacted about Varthaman's appointment, a FLY91 spokesperson said that personal information concerning employees was a private matter and declined to comment.

Further details about his role, including the aircraft he may operate and his flying schedule, were not immediately available.