From Downing A Pakistani Jet To Flying Passengers: Former Indian Air Force Group Captain Abhinandan Varthaman Joins FLY91
New Delhi: Former Indian Air Force Group Captain and Vir Chakra awardee Abhinandan Varthaman has joined Goa-based regional airline FLY91 as a pilot, according to sources. Varthaman, who downed an enemy jet during an aerial combat with Pakistan in 2019 and was held captive for three days in that country, was honoured with the Vir Chakra award in 2021. The sources told PTI that Varthaman joined the…
Former Indian Air Force Group Captain Abhinandan Varthaman, recipient of the Vir Chakra award for his actions during an aerial combat with Pakistan in 2019, has begun working as a pilot for the regional airline FLY91, according to sources. Varthaman, who was held captive in Pakistan for three days following the incident, joined the company in August 2025.
A spokesperson for FLY91 declined to comment on Varthaman's employment, citing privacy concerns. The airline, founded in March 2024, currently operates six ATR 72-600 aircraft and has two bases in Goa and Hyderabad.
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