Former Indian Air Force Group Captain Abhinandan Varthaman, celebrated for downing a Pakistani F‑16 during the 2019 Balakot aerial combat, has joined private airline FLY91 as a pilot, sources confirmed.
The Vir Chakra awardee, who retired from the IAF in March 2026 at the age of 43, reportedly joined the Goa‑based carrier last month. While details of his flying responsibilities remain undisclosed, FLY91 said employee information was private and declined to comment.
Abhinandan’s role in the 2019 dogfight remains historic—he became the only MiG‑21 pilot to shoot down an F‑16, before ejecting over Pakistan‑occupied territory and being held captive for three days. His bravery earned him India’s third‑highest wartime gallantry award in 2021.
Promoted to Group Captain after the strike, Abhinandan’s transition to civil aviation marks a new chapter in his career. FLY91, which began operations in March 2024, currently runs a fleet of six ATR 72‑600 aircraft with bases in Goa and Hyderabad.