Abhinandan Varthaman, the Indian fighter pilot who gained prominence after being detained in Pakistan, has left the Indian Air Force and joined a private airline. After serving in the military for approximately 22 years, he will now fly passenger planes.
In 2019, Abhinandan’s fighter jet was shot down while conducting an attack on Pakistani territory. He was subsequently captured by Pakistani soldiers. He was handed over to India three days after the incident.
According to a report by Indian media outlet NDTV, Abhinandan has taken early retirement from the Air Force and embarked on a new career as a commercial pilot. He has joined Fly91, a Goa-based regional private airline.
The Indian news agency PTI, citing several sources, reported that Abhinandan, a former Group Captain and recipient of the Vir Chakra medal, joined Fly91 as a pilot last August. He transitioned into this new profession after a long 22-year career in the Air Force.
However, Abhinandan Varthaman has not yet commented on his new career. A spokesperson for Fly91 also declined to confirm his employment details or disclose personal information, stating that the matter is private.