Ex- IAF wing commander who shot down Pak jet after Balakot strikes joins private airline
Former Indian Air Force Group Captain Abhinandan Varthaman, known for his role in the 2019 Balakot air strikes, has transitioned to a career as a pilot for the regional airline FLY91. Varthaman was previously awarded the Vir Chakra for his actions during an aerial engagement with Pakistan.
Why it matters
It marks a notable career shift for a high-profile military figure who became a national symbol of bravery in India.
Former Indian Air Force Group Captain and Vir Chakra awardee Abhinandan Varthaman has joined Goa-based regional airline FLY91 as a pilot.Varthaman, who became widely known after shooting down a Pakistani fighter during an aerial engagement in 2019 before being captured by Pakistan, joined the airline in August.His move to commercial aviation comes after a distinguished career in the IAF, including his role in the aerial combat that followed India's Balakot air strikes.On February 26, 2019, the IAF carried out an air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed facility in Balakot, Pakistan, days after a terrorist attack on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama killed 40 personnel.The following day, Pakistani fighter jets attempted to launch an aerial attack, prompting the…
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