Indian Air Force Group Captain Abhinandan Varthaman, who was captured by Pakistan after his MiG-21 was shot down during the 2019 aerial conflict, has taken early retirement from the IAF and transitioned to a career in commercial aviation. He joined the Goa-based regional airline FLY91 as a pilot following his departure from military service.
Varthaman concluded his approximately 22-year tenure with the Indian Air Force on March 31, 2026. He subsequently began training and flying with FLY91 in August of the same year. The airline operates from bases in Goa and Hyderabad, with a fleet of six ATR 72-600 aircraft, focusing on regional connectivity within India.
In a significant development, Varthaman’s move marks a shift from flying advanced fighter jets to piloting passenger aircraft. Reports indicate he is currently undergoing training on the ATR 72-600 before assuming full commercial flying responsibilities. A spokesperson for FLY91 declined to comment on individual employment details.
Varthaman first gained prominence during the February 27, 2019 aerial engagement along the Line of Control, a day after India’s Balakot air strike. Then a Wing Commander with the IAF’s 51 Squadron, he was flying a MiG-21 Bison when he engaged Pakistani aircraft. His official citation credits him with shooting down a Pakistani F-16 before his own jet was hit, forcing him to eject over Pakistani-controlled territory.
Captured by Pakistani forces, he remained in custody for three days before being released on March 1, 2019, amid heightened tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. For his actions, Varthaman was awarded the Vir Chakra, India’s third-highest wartime gallantry award, recognizing his exceptional dedication during the engagement.
Despite sustaining spinal and rib injuries during the ejection, he underwent medical evaluations and returned to active fighter flying duties. He was promoted to Group Captain in December 2021 and continued serving until his early retirement this year.
FLY91, which launched commercial operations in March 2024, aims to enhance air connectivity to smaller cities and regional destinations across India. Varthaman’s transition to commercial aviation highlights a new chapter in his distinguished flying career.
