Ratan Tata, one of India’s most iconic industrialists, had a lifelong passion for aviation. Born in 1937, Tata’s love for flying began early—he learned to fly at the age of 17 and later became a licensed pilot. His enthusiasm for aviation echoed the legacy of JRD Tata, the founder of Air India and the father of Indian civil aviation, who also held India’s first pilot license.
Ratan Tata’s flying career included many milestones, but one of his most remarkable feats came in 2007 when, at the age of 69, he became the first civilian from India to fly an F-16 Falcon fighter jet at the Bangalore Air Show. This achievement made him the oldest Indian to fly the prestigious fighter aircraft.
Even as his health declined, Tata’s passion for flying remained strong. In February 2022, barely a month after Tata Sons took over Air India, Airbus demonstrated its latest A350 aircraft in Mumbai. Despite his frail condition, Ratan Tata boarded the plane using an ambu-lift and sat in the cockpit’s jump seat during a 40-minute flight. His knowledge and enthusiasm for the aircraft impressed everyone onboard, reflecting his deep love for aviation.
Ratan Tata’s connection to Air India runs deep. He had attempted to bring the airline back to the Tata Group multiple times over the past 30 years, finally succeeding in 2022. His mentor, JRD Tata, had founded Air India before it was nationalized in 1953. Ratan Tata’s success in reacquiring the airline was seen as a tribute to both JRD and his own lifelong passion for aviation.
From flying commercial jets to fighter planes, Ratan Tata’s aviation journey symbolizes his adventurous spirit and commitment to excellence, which carried through every aspect of his life. His contributions to Indian aviation, both as a businessman and a pilot, leave behind an inspiring legacy.