In February 2007, Ratan Tata embarked on a thrilling adventure at the Aero India Show in Bengaluru, co-piloting an F-16 fighter jet. At the age of 69, he was invited by US defense contractor Lockheed Martin to take to the skies in a high-speed experience that few could ever imagine. Known for his aviation prowess, Tata held licenses to fly both jets and helicopters, and he eagerly accepted the opportunity to co-pilot the renowned combat aircraft.
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Under the guidance of an experienced Lockheed Martin pilot, Tata took control of the F-16 during the half-hour flight, soaring through clear skies and reaching altitudes as low as 500 feet. His exhilarating experience was filled with excitement and wonder, as he navigated the aircraft over hills and across diverse topography. In an interview with NDTV shortly after the flight, Tata expressed his amazement, stating, “You end up feeling very timid. We did a few things when the commander took over… It’s just unbelievable.”
Remembering Ratan Tata (1937-2024)
India’s foremost industrialist and avid aviation enthusiast 🇮🇳
Ratan Tata had a passion for flying and was a licensed pilot. He learned to fly at the age of 17. He became the first civilian from India to fly the F-16 Falcon fighter jet in 2007 pic.twitter.com/9MGAyInphD
— News IADN (@NewsIADN) October 9, 2024
The Lockheed Martin pilot echoed Tata’s enthusiasm, remarking on the thrill of flying at low altitudes, around 500 feet at speeds of 600 knots. “You get a real sense of how fast this aircraft can move,” the pilot recalled. Upon landing, Tata was warmly greeted by Lockheed Martin officials, who presented him with a miniature replica of the F-16.
Tata’s airborne pursuits didn’t end with the F-16. The following day, he took to the skies once more, this time co-piloting Boeing’s F-18 Super Hornet—a larger and more powerful aircraft crucial to US Navy operations. For Tata, who had long harbored a passion for aviation, flying two of the world’s most advanced fighter jets back-to-back was a dream come true.
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Ratan Tata passed away at the age of 86 in a Mumbai hospital on Wednesday. His last rites will be conducted with full state honors, honoring the legacy of a man whose contributions extended far beyond the business world.
