Due to security reasons, I cannot share his name or picture with you but here are the excerpts of a fighter pilot from the Indian Air Force talking to Tiger! Happy Independence Day!

What drives you?
Craving to excel in any Job at hand. While deciding to chose a profession, I wanted the one which had best mix of all good things like ‘Izzat’, glamour adventure…

Why Indian Air Force?
A quote……..”When once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skywards, for there you have been, and there you will always long to return.”

What is the most thrilling thing you have done?
Flew over the Himalayas in the year 1999 knowing that Pakistanis wouldn’t dare to escalate the conflict because we were there to take them on.

Top five things one should do to become a fighter pilot.
While there is no success formula, here is what I have learnt.
1. Avoid rat race
2. Understand basics of school grade science and maths
3. Play outdoor games especially racquet games
4. Avoid mental stress throughout your life
5. Be passionate towards what you want to do.

What other vehicles you like apart from fighter planes?
Boys toys. Cars and bikes.

Food you like?
Whatever my wife cooks.

Places you have been to…
Destinations with historical and natural attractions all over India.

What should a common man know about the life of a fighter pilot?
Common man just needs to acknowledge and respect and be grateful for what not only a Fighter Pilot but all of the Armed Forces do. To know what they do; join them.