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Home News Abhinandan Varthaman Joins FLY91 as Commercial Pilot

Abhinandan Varthaman Transitions to Commercial Aviation

Sep 3, 2026
52 min
15
Sep 3, 2026 07:30
Former IAF pilot Abhinandan Varthaman begins new innings as commercial pilot

## New Career Path

Abhinandan Varthaman, a former Group Captain in the Indian Air Force (IAF), has embarked on a new career as a commercial pilot. He recently joined FLY91, a regional airline based in Goa, after retiring from the IAF. Varthaman, who served for nearly 22 years, is known for his role in the 2019 India-Pakistan aerial conflict.

## Notable Military Career

Varthaman gained international attention during a tense period between India and Pakistan in February 2019. Following a suicide bombing in Pulwama, India conducted air strikes near Balakot, targeting a militant training camp. This led to an aerial engagement where Varthaman's MiG-21 Bison was shot down. He was captured by Pakistani forces and released after two days.

## Recognition and Transition

For his bravery during the conflict, Varthaman was awarded the Vir Chakra, one of India's military honors, in August 2019. He was later promoted to Group Captain. His move to FLY91 signifies a shift from military to commercial aviation, as he joins the airline that began operations in March 2024.

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