Indian Air Force Group Captain Abhinandan Varthaman is preparing for a new chapter in aviation after joining regional airline FLY91 as a commercial pilot.
Varthaman became widely known after the 2019 Pakistan-India aerial confrontation, when his MiG-21 Bison was shot down by the Pakistan Air Force.
He ejected from the aircraft and landed in Pakistani territory. He was subsequently taken into custody by Pakistani forces.
Seven years later, Varthaman is preparing to return to the cockpit, this time as a commercial pilot flying civilian passengers.
From Military Pilot to Commercial Aviation
According to Indian media reports, Varthaman has joined FLY91 and is currently undergoing training with the airline.
His training is being conducted on the Goa-Hyderabad route as he prepares to transition from military aviation to commercial operations.
After completing the required training and receiving regulatory clearances, Varthaman is expected to operate ATR aircraft for the airline.
FLY91 has confirmed Varthaman’s association with the carrier but has not disclosed detailed information about his training programme or future flying schedule.
The airline also said Varthaman did not wish to share further details about his professional or personal journey.
Abhinandan’s 2019 Aerial Encounter
Varthaman’s name came into the spotlight following the aerial engagement between India and Pakistan on February 27, 2019.
He was flying a MiG-21 Bison when the aircraft was shot down during the confrontation.
After ejecting from the aircraft, Varthaman landed in Pakistani territory and was taken into custody.
His capture became a major development during the tense military confrontation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.
He was later released by Pakistan and returned to India.
A New Role in the Cockpit
Varthaman is now moving from military aviation to civilian flying.
Once his training and regulatory requirements are completed, he is expected to fly ATR aircraft for FLY91.
The transition marks a significant change in his aviation career. His next flights will involve carrying passengers rather than conducting military operations.
The airline has not yet announced when Varthaman will begin regular commercial flights or which routes he will operate after completing his training.
His move to commercial aviation comes years after the 2019 confrontation that made him one of the most recognised Indian military pilots in the region.
