Pilot Abhinandan Varthaman, Who Shot Down Pak Jet, Retires From IAF And Joins Goa Airline: Report
Indian Air Force pilot Abhinandan Varthaman, known for his role in the 2019 aerial conflict with Pakistan, has retired early to join the private airline FLY91. Varthaman gained national prominence after being captured and subsequently released during a period of high military tension.
Why it matters
The career transition of a high-profile military figure reflects the intersection of national security history and the growing private aviation sector in India.
Indian Air Force (IAF) fighter pilot Abhinandan Varthaman, who was held captive for three days in Pakistan after his aircraft was shot down in an air duel with a Pakistan Air Force jet in February 2019, has taken premature retirement from the Air Force to begin his new aviation career with a private airline as a commercial pilot.The former Group Captain and Vir Chakra awardee, who served in the Air Force for 22 years, has joined Goa-based regional airline FLY91 as a pilot, news agency PTI reported, quoting sources.The report claimed that Varthaman joined the private airline in August.So far, Varthaman has not issued any statement on the matter. A FLY91 spokesperson also refused to release any personal information about employees, saying it is a private matter. FLY91, which started flying in March 2024, currently operates a fleet of six ATR 72-600 aircraft.
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