New Delhi: Former Group Captain Abhinandan Varthaman, who came into limelight across the country by shooting down Pakistan's F-16 fighter plane in 2019, has now started a new journey. After separating from the Indian Air Force, he has joined Goa's regional airline FLY91. According to the information, now he will serve as a commercial pilot in this private airline. However, the reason for leaving the Air Force has not been revealed yet and no official statement has been issued in this regard.
According to sources, Vir Chakra awardee Abhinandan Varthaman had joined Goa-based FLY91 as a pilot in August. Detailed information related to his new role has not been made public at present. According to media reports, the airline spokesperson declined to comment on Abhinandan's appointment or role. The spokesperson said that an employee's personal information is a personal matter. No formal announcement has been made by the Indian Air Force yet.
Goa's FLY91 started its flight services in March 2024. The airline currently has six ATR 72-600 aircraft. Its two main centers of operations are in Goa and Hyderabad.
Pakistan's F-16 shot down
Abhinandan Varthaman got international recognition after the air clash between India and Pakistan in the year 2019. Tension between the two countries increased after the Balakot airstrike in February 2019. During this time, aerial combat took place between Indian and Pakistani fighter planes.
In this encounter, Abhinandan shot down an F-16 aircraft of Pakistan. However, during this operation, his plane also crashed and he was captured in Pakistan. After being in custody for about three days, he was sent back to India.
Abhinandan had received Veer Chakra
In view of his courage and dedication to duty in aerial combat, the Government of India honored him with Vir Chakra in 2021. This is India's third highest gallantry award given during wartime. The citation for the award mentioned his extraordinary courage and devotion to duty during the aerial encounter. Now after the Air Force, his new chapter in commercial aviation has started.