From flying MiG-21 Bison in combat to commercial aviation, Abhinandan Varthaman begins a new chapter after leaving the Indian Air Force (Img: Pinterest)
New Delhi: Group Captain Abhinandan Varthaman, the Indian Air Force fighter pilot who became a national icon after shooting down a Pakistani F-16 during the 2019 Balakot air combat, has left the Indian Air Force and started a new chapter in his aviation career.
According to officials familiar with the matter, Abhinandan retired from the IAF on March 31, 2026, and later joined Fly91, a regional private airline.
His move marks the end of a remarkable military career that saw him become one of India’s most recognised fighter pilots.
Abhinandan Varthaman was serving as a Wing Commander in February 2019 when tensions escalated between India and Pakistan after the Pulwama terror attack.
A day after the Indian Air Force carried out the Balakot air strikes, Pakistani fighter jets attempted to enter Indian airspace near the Line of Control (LoC).
During the aerial engagement on February 27, 2019, Abhinandan, flying a MiG-21 Bison, engaged Pakistani aircraft and shot down an F-16 fighter jet.
The incident was considered a significant moment in military aviation as experts described it as the first reported instance of a MiG-21 Bison bringing down an F-16 fighter.
During the same combat operation, Abhinandan’s aircraft was hit by a missile, forcing him to eject over Pakistan-occupied territory.
He was captured by Pakistani forces and remained in custody for nearly 60 hours before being handed back to India on March 1, 2019.
His calm behaviour and courage during captivity received widespread appreciation across the country.
For his exceptional courage during the air combat, Abhinandan Varthaman was awarded the Vir Chakra, India’s third-highest wartime gallantry award.
The official citation praised his bravery and aggressive response while engaging enemy aircraft despite facing numerical and technological challenges.
After years of service in the Air Force, Abhinandan will now continue his aviation journey in the private sector, bringing his experience as a fighter pilot to commercial aviation.
