Abhinandan Varthaman: From IAF Hero to Commercial Pilot at FLY91

Former Indian Air Force pilot Abhinandan Varthaman, who became a household name after the 2019 India-Pakistan aerial confrontation, has now transitioned to the commercial aviation sector. The decorated officer has joined FLY91, a Goa-based airline, as a pilot.

Varthaman's fame stems from his actions on February 27, 2019, a day after India's Balakot airstrike. While stationed at an air force base in Srinagar, he was scrambled to intercept a large formation of Pakistani fighter jets approaching the Line of Control. Flying a Soviet-era MiG-21 Bison, he managed to shoot down a far more advanced American-made Pakistani F-16 using an R-73 air-to-air missile. This engagement is noted as a historic first, marking the only instance of a MiG-21 Bison downing an F-16.

Shortly after his successful strike, Varthaman's own aircraft was hit by an AMRAAM missile, forcing him to eject. He landed in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and was taken into custody by the Pakistani military. During his nearly 60-hour captivity, a video released by Pakistani authorities showed him calmly sipping tea and remarking, "The tea is fantastic, thank you," which captured the nation's attention. He was released on March 1, 2019, following diplomatic negotiations.

Upon his return, Varthaman was celebrated as a national hero. His distinctive handlebar moustache and mutton chops became a trend, with barbershops across the country offering the "Abhinandan Cut." Brands also paid tribute to his bravery. The Indian government later honoured him with the Vir Chakra, the country's third-highest wartime gallantry award.

Varthaman reportedly joined FLY91 in August. The airline, which began operations in March 2024, has bases in Goa and Hyderabad and operates a fleet of six ATR 72-600 aircraft.