A 14-year career in the Indian Air Force has now led Wing Commander Rahul Verekar to a new chapter in commercial aviation
John Aguiar
Wing Commander Rahul Pradeep Verekar of Shantinagar, Ponda, has had a distinguished career in the Indian Air Force. As a pilot, he has made significant contributions to operations and training, while helping maintain the IAF’s high standards.
He was born in 1985, on Goa’s Independence Day. His educational journey has been impressive, from St Mary’s High School, Ponda, to RIT Engineering College. He was recruited through an Indian Air Force campus interview as part of the university selection process. He went on to become one of the pioneering officers commissioned through the Short Service Commission for men in the Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force and underwent one and a half years of rigorous training at the Air Force Academy(AFA).
He was commissioned as an officer in the Air Force in June 2009, marking the beginning of his real journey. He spent seven years flying heavy-lift transport aircraft. His subsequent selection as a Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) at the Air Force Academy was a significant achievement. For two years, he helped shape the next generation of pilots at the AFA, a responsibility that was a true testament to his expertise.
The Flying Instructors’ School at AFS Tambaram, Chennai, is a respected institution. As an instructor there, Verekar helped train those who would, in turn, shape the future of Indian aviation. He trained operational pilots from the IAF, Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard and Indian Army. It was a huge responsibility and a testament to his expertise. He played a valuable role in maintaining the high standards of the IAF.
Overall, Verekar‘s journey has been incredible. While studying engineering, he probably would not have imagined that his career would eventually take him into military aviation. But one never knows when and where fate will lead. He served as a Short Service Commission officer in the IAF for 14 years, and the appreciation he received from senior officers is a testimony to his dedication and excellence. He received commendations for exemplary service from the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Air Command, and the Commander-in-Chief, Andaman and Nicobar Command.
Moving from military aviation to the commercial cockpit is no small transition. Transitioning from being an IAF pilot to flying for a civil airline involves adapting to different operational environments, procedures and aircraft. His experience in the IAF has prepared him for this new role.
Verekar’s words carry an important message for the youth of Goa. He says the civil services and defence services offer incredible opportunities to grow, seek adventure and serve the nation. Exposure to these fields can be truly life-changing.
