Former Indian Air Force (IAF) Group Captain and Vir Chakra awardee Abhinandan Varthaman has taken premature retirement from the force and embarked on a new career as a commercial pilot. Varthaman joined Goa-based regional airline FLY91 in August, marking a new chapter in his professional journey after 22 years of distinguished service with the IAF. He shot down a Pakistani F-16 during an aerial combat on February 27, 2019, before his MiG-21 Bison was hit. He ejected over Pakistan-occupied territory and was subsequently captured by Pakistani forces. He was released after three days in captivity. At the time of the 2019 aerial engagement, Varthaman held the rank of Wing Commander. He was later promoted to Group Captain by the IAF and was awarded the Vir Chakra for his role in the combat. FLY91 commenced commercial operations in March 2024. The airline currently operates six ATR 72-600 aircraft, with bases in Goa and Hyderabad. Post navigation Fire Breaks Out At Milk Factory In Kataka: କଟକରେ ଥିବା ଦୁଗ୍ଧ କାରଖାନାରେ ଭୟାବହ ଅଗ୍ନିକାଣ୍ଡ Raghav Chadha’s Name Deleted From Punjab Voter List
