Former Indian Air Force Group Captain Abhinandan Varthaman has started a new chapter in commercial aviation after retiring from the IAF. The Vir Chakra awardee, who became widely known after the 2019 aerial combat with Pakistan, has joined Goa-based regional airline FLY91 as a pilot. Varthaman retired from the Air Force on March 31, 2026, after nearly 22 years of service and joined FLY91 in August, according to reports. He is currently undergoing the training required for commercial flight operations. His move marks a transition from flying fighter aircraft in the IAF to potentially operating passenger aircraft in civilian aviation.Why Did Abhinandan Join FLY91?Abhinandan Varthaman has moved from military aviation to commercial flying following his retirement from the Indian Air Force. Sources cited by multiple reports said he joined FLY91, a regional airline based in Goa, as a pilot in August. The airline has confirmed his association but has not provided further personal details, citing employee privacy. He is reportedly undergoing the necessary training before beginning commercial operations.Abhinandan retired from the IAF on March 31, 2026.He served in the Indian Air Force for nearly 22 years.He joined Goa-based FLY91 as a pilot in August.He is currently undergoing commercial aviation training.FLY91 operates ATR 72-600 regional aircraft.From Fighter Pilot To Airline PilotAbhinandan became a household name after the February 27, 2019 aerial confrontation between India and Pakistan. Flying a MiG-21 Bison, he was credited with shooting down a Pakistani F-16 before his aircraft was hit and he ejected over Pakistani territory. He was subsequently taken into custody and released on March 1, 2019.The incident followed the Indian Air Force operation at Balakot a day earlier. Abhinandan was later honoured with the Vir Chakra for his actions during the aerial engagement. He was promoted to the rank of Group Captain in December 2021 and continued serving the IAF before taking premature retirement earlier this year.New Career With Goa AirlineFLY91 is a regional carrier based in Goa that began commercial operations in 2024. The airline operates ATR 72-600 turboprop aircraft and has been expanding connectivity between regional destinations. Abhinandan’s reported appointment comes as the airline works to grow its operations and network.Reports say Abhinandan is currently completing the training and regulatory requirements needed to operate commercial flights. Once those requirements and clearances are completed, he is expected to fly passenger aircraft for the airline. FLY91 has not publicly disclosed detailed information about his role or schedule.Key HighlightsAbhinandan Varthaman has retired from the Indian Air Force.He completed nearly 22 years of IAF service.He joined Goa-based regional airline FLY91 in August.The former fighter pilot is undergoing commercial aviation training.He received the Vir Chakra for his actions during the 2019 aerial engagement.FLY91 operates ATR 72-600 aircraft on regional routes.Abhinandan Begins Civilian Aviation CareerAbhinandan Varthaman’s move to FLY91 marks a major professional transition after more than two decades in military aviation. From flying the MiG-21 Bison during a high-profile 2019 aerial engagement to preparing for commercial passenger operations, his career is now entering a different phase. He has already joined the Goa-based airline and is completing the required training before flying commercially. His journey from the Indian Air Force to civilian aviation has drawn significant public attention across India.Disclaimer: This article is provided for knowledge and news-information purposes only and is based on publicly reported information. Details about Abhinandan Varthaman’s employment and flying schedule remain subject to official confirmation.
